Merz Apothecary

https://onthegrid.city/chicago/lincoln-square/merz-apothecary

On the Grid : Merz Apothecary

"This apothecary is the real deal. They have a 140-year-old history and have grown through 5 generations. It’s not your average drugstore—they focus on herbal medicines and natural products using organic ingredients. From ice bags to skincare to perfume to salves and everything in-between, they have it all. They claim to have the largest collection of natural and luxury soaps from around the world under one roof. If you’re ever looking for a rare pharmaceutical product, they will most likely have it. Have an ailment? Talk to their staff and they will happily help you find something for the cure. Connected to Merz is their newest addition, Q Brothers, a men's shop with all the products men could need to care for their hairy bods." - Knoed Creative

https://www.atlasobscura.com/lists/cool-shops-in-chicago

@atlasobscura

7 Cool Shops in Chicago

"Before medicines came in pill form, pharmacists at the local apothecary blended mysterious powders and liquids to relieve everyday ailments and serious illnesses. About 20 years after aspirin was invented, and 80 years before polio was eradicated in the United States, a modest pharmacist named Peter Merz opened his shop on the north side of Chicago. The year was 1875. Though pharmacists did fill prescriptions written out by doctors, more often than not they played the role of doctor themselves, recommending their own remedies and preparing them for their familiar clientele. Rather than call his shop a pharmacy, Merz followed the European tradition and named it an “apothecary.” Immigrants fresh from Sweden and Germany and other parts of Europe flocked to this old world chemist. The salespeople spoke many languages, and their reputation grew. After over a century of success, and three generations of pharmacists, the store was on the verge of closing in 1972, when a young pharmacist offered to buy the shop. The store moved in 1982, a few miles down the street, to a larger space. The new building was designed to resemble a turn-of-the-century apothecary, complete with a hand-carved wooden facade, tin ceilings, and oak cabinets. The glass bottles originally used to store herbs added extra authenticity to the interior. The inventory has expanded since 1875 to include skin care and hygiene products, as well as a large selection of homeopathic medicine, vitamins and other natural remedies. The shop maintains its connection to European care and delicacy in the soaps and lotions it carries from France, Sweden, and other places. The shop still smells like a pharmacy in 1875. A melange of bitters, tea tree oil, chamomile, and harsher fragrances sift through the air. But while the aromas may be a century old, the remedies for sale are as modern as any drugstore." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

@goop

"Stepping in here is the closest thing to time travel. Peter Merz opened this North Side institution in 1875 to resemble the European apothecaries his customers were missing, and other than moving to a bigger space in the 80s, it really hasn’t changed much: Holistic remedies and herbal tinctures (rounded out by a massive selection of vitamins and supplements) are displayed in their original antique jars, while natural skincare and beauty products from modern day favorites like Dr. Hauschka, Klorane, and Jao line the shelves. There’s also an equally well-stocked downtown location. "

The Chicago Guide

"Merz Apothecary, Lincoln Square. This apothecary is the real deal. They have a 140-year-old history and have grown through 5 generations. It’s not your average drugstore—they focus on herbal medicines and natural products using organic ingredients. From ice bags to skincare to perfume to salves and everything in-between, they have it all. They claim to have the largest collection of natural and luxury soaps from around the world under one roof. If you’re ever looking for a rare pharmaceutical product, they will most likely have it. Have an ailment? Talk to their staff and they will happily help you find something for the cure. Connected to Merz is their newest addition, Q Brothers, a men's shop with all the products men could need to care for their hairy bods."

@monocle

"Leaded-glass windows with gold leaf and hand-painted signage, custom woodwork, tin ceilings and twinkling chandeliers: step into this family-run pharmacy and, clichéd as it might sound, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to a traditional apothecary in 1800s Vienna. In 1875, Peter Merz founded a small pharmacy focused on herbal remedies and, after being purchased by Abdul Qaiyum in 1972, the business expanded and moved to its current location. Choose between Santa Maria Novella soaps, Byredo fragrances and Dr Hauschka skincare before nipping next door to the more modern The Shops at Merz, featuring men’s grooming specialist Q Brothers."

Theresa Hoban

Google

Probably one of my favorite stores on the planet‼️ It was established in the 1800’s as a German Apothecary in Lincoln Square which was the German part of Chicago. The selection of imported soaps, creams, vitamins and scented body products is amazing and beautifully laid out. The staff are super nice and helpful. My son and husband get their specially scented beard oil there. I find it a wonderland of imported soaps and beauty products. When you are visiting this area don’t miss it. The store itself is so beautiful. It feels like we are visiting Europe and the scents are wonderful.

Jesus Ramirez

Google

Amazing customer service. Got an amazing fragrance that I love, which I obviously had to return because my wife and daughters hated it. Went back to return it and picked a new fragrance, ended up with a bottle of Eight & Bob Egypt.

Danny Yang

Google

Had a great selection of fragrances that other stores don't carry. Lady at the scent counter was super friendly and helpful as I was trying a bunch of scent samples. Definitely one of the best places to try out unique scents!

chintot

Google

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.

Mariya I.

Google

Came with a friend and enjoyed smelling a variety of niche perfumes. They have great selection of beauty products. Also just an adorable little space.

Hannah Anderson

Google

Love going to Merz. They have a great selection of fragrances if you are looking for more boutique and high-end than just Sephora. Sophie who works the counter is knowledgeable and a great help when deciding what to buy.

David Pfeifer

Google

I come to Merz probably too often to shop for perfume. The ladies behind the perfume table are very knowledgeable and always have accurate suggestions for my requests! It’s just a joy to shop here, especially because their selection of perfume is extensive and ranges from affordable to luxe (e.g. Juliette Has A Gun, Regime Des Fleurs, Byredo, Maison Francis Kurkdjan). The list of houses continues to grow, and I hope to see houses like Frederic Mille, Mind Games, Memo Paris, Olfactiv Studios, and more :)

Tyler Blaz

Google

Beautiful, cozy apothecary with a huge range of drugstore goods. This cute shop has so many products for personal hygiene, lotions, shower products, etc. The staff are very friendly and helpful when they see you browsing around. Highly suggest going in and walking around, as the shop smells great and is beautifully decorated.

Lisa S.

Yelp

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!

Semira A.

Yelp

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.

Aesha E.

Yelp

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.

Sheyenne H.

Yelp

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.

MARISOL P.

Yelp

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.

Carleen T.

Yelp

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!

Shelly L.

Yelp

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

A J.

Yelp

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.

Lucian F.

Yelp

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

Brie G.

Yelp

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!

Sharon T.

Yelp

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!

Tammy S.

Yelp

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

Apple S.

Yelp

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.

Eric S.

Yelp

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.

Anna S.

Yelp

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.

Matt M.

Yelp

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!

Melissa A.

Yelp

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!

Adam K.

Yelp

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.

adair b.

Yelp

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.

Allen M.

Yelp

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.

Alice J.

Yelp

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!

Christine B.

Yelp

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

Tim S.

Yelp

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.

Ben J.

Yelp

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!

Mo A.

Yelp

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!

Kathleen E.

Yelp

Merz is one if my favorite stores in Lincoln Square. I like many of the vitamins, bath and body care, d hist and other wellness products for allergies & sinus issues. Merz is the perfect store to pick up gifts as well. They have been in business for a very long time and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly.

Andrea K.

Yelp

Amazing store- there is nothing else like this in the Midwest!! The niche perfumes are the best. Highly recommend!!!

Kathy P.

Yelp

Love this quaint and highly unique store in Chicago. You have everything - amazing staff - super friendly and helpful.

Sean C.

Yelp

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!

Robert S.

Yelp

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.

Carolyn N.

Yelp

I had ordered Korodin drops for nausea from this Company about 5 years ago. I called them today as I wanted to place another order for that product but they no longer carried it. Aubrey talked to me to make sure he understood exactly what I was looking for, and he discussed their current products and found a similar product that they do have available. I also advised him of another other health issue that I was having (arthritis) and he was able to recommend a product to me. I ordered the products that he discussed with me, and since that order was just placed today, I cannot tell you how those products work yet, but I can tell you that the customer service experience that Aubrey gave was exceptional. I will update my post once I try the products that I have ordered so that I can give a review of the actual products, however, regardless if the products work or not, my view of this Company will not change, as this is a Company that I will do more business with and I will recommend them to anyone I know that is looking for herbal remedies.

G R.

Yelp

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.

Josh S.

Yelp

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.

Sasha V.

Yelp

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.

Romana N.

Yelp

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!

Craig P.

Yelp

This review concerns Smallflower, which is Merz's online business. I would like to support a local business. I like what Merz carries, and the retail store is nice. However, the online process stinks. During the pandemic, I placed an online order. I was sent items I did not order and not sent items I did order. Working this out with customer service required taking photos of what I was sent in order to receive the correct items. My next order had a lengthy processing delay before it even shipped. Then, after this delay, it got sent USPS and totally lost. From order to receipt of goods took weeks. I was told I had caught the company in a "warehouse move." This time, I ordered a bunch of Christmas gifts on Nov. 27. Only when I received the order confirmation did it mention "delays with economy shipping." 7 days after placing the order, it still had not even been processed to ship (with then the promise of further delays once shipped!). I contacted Merz and requested that we move the shipping to express so I would receive the order in-time (note: willing to pay); I was told that you cannot change the shipping type after ordering and that to expedite shipping I would need to cancel the order and resubmit it on the website (whhhaaaattttt), and it would take "3-5 days" for the order to be processed. I then noted that, in fact, 7 days had passed since the original order, and it wasn't yet even processed. I was then told the agent had worked with the warehouse manager to ensure that my order would be processed and shipped that day. Guess what? A day later, 8 days after the order was submitted, it still is in processing and hasn't shipped. I would go to the store to purchase the gifts...but the store closes at 6pm and is closed entirely on Sunday, and the downtown location was closed. I do not expect a local business to be Amazon, with overnight shipping. I do not think it is unreasonable to ask a local business to process an order from its website within 8 days and get it in the mail or to follow-through on a promise to a customer. Across 3 orders now, for in-stock items, it's taking 3-4 weeks for orders to arrive. No thanks.

Robin M.

Yelp

Nicest staff and loveliest little toiletries everywhere. Really great perfume collection and experts to help you out.

Rachel K.

Yelp

These guys know what they're talking about and aren't afraid to really help you find what you need. Seriously, we spent about an hour in here shopping for deodorant. With sensitive skin it's sometimes hard to find a product that will work and keep your skin happy and the service we received here was awesome. They walked us around and talked about the pros and cons of different products and their ingredients and you could tell that they weren't pushing products to up-sell you, but to truly help solve your problem. If we lived in the area we would definitely do our regular drugstore shopping here and we even found some great products that work for us for cheaper than Amazon prices. Alas, we live out of the area so while we're thankful for the new products on our go-to list we'll have to pay a little extra and shop on the web. If you're in the area and looking for something specialized, natural or just want to look around this is a great spot!

Eva R.

Yelp

Very large collection of a variety of health and beauty products! Plan to spend a little time to check it all out but you still won't check it all in one visit. Quite a variety of perfumes a little pricier than what I wanted to pay Kimberly helped us out very sweet, personable and helpful.

Kora N.

Yelp

Amazing store I love to support. Even buying household detergent cleaners soaps during pandemic just to support them. Hope they stay in the neighborhood forever. My sons eczema has gotten so much better, they stock quality products from around the world. Love this store.

Aleks K.

Yelp

Gorgeous, plenty of old fashioned charm and well stocked! I left with a lotion and a lip balm but could've done much more damage. I kept it together knowing this is only the first part of my trip to Chicago. I would love to see one of these in Charlotte! Reminded me of C.O. Bigelow in Nee York City. A must if you love any kind of beauty product.

Bree K.

Yelp

Wonderful and truly deserves a 5 star review. It's been in business since 1875. A Chicago classic and look into the old world. But better yet is the staff. They have a PharmD on staff and an herbalist. They have products from all around the world, and not a grain of pretentiousness in their bodies. They have luxury items with the advantage of consulting experts at very very reasonable prices. Some even better than Jewels or Walgreens prices. The pharmacist, Jonathan, was so kind to accommodate my group of 8 from Swedish Covenant Hospital oncology department and tell us all about the store. They are very careful to weigh the risks vs. benefit of complimentary medicine. They understand drug-nutrient interactions, there is no agenda. I never found a place similar to this that I would recommend as much as this. I am a total cynic and science snob and this place is the real deal, and the true shining diamonds are the knowledgeable and capable staff members. Not to mention affordable and international best-of-the-best products. I am usually wary about this kind of thing, but this is the real deal- experts on staff, no sales agenda, knowledgeable people willing to present to you scientific information. Bravo! And I will be back. Sincerely, Dietitian with Masters Degree and 4 years clinical and oncology experience.Never been compelled to write a review for a similar company. Thank you!

Fareed K.

Yelp

I went there first time and I was gonna be in and out. There is no good parking place so I parked as closed as possible because only one essential thing is buy. Most of people wear fabric mask. So I have my scarf as my mask which was more covering my face then their own employee who was wear a fabric mask and that also barely wearing her face just her nose and mouth. And one of their employee came and made me wear extra cover because am Muslim and my head was cover. Every racist people they are. First and last time. And they even don't have any precautions in their own stores. Like no sanitizer or distance concerns or cashier were not even had plastic wall if someone cough or sneezed on them and no employees were even then gloves. And they were worried about my scarf covered face. Ya right. Totally dam employees.

Diana G.

Yelp

I come here whenever I visit the Lincoln Square neighborhood because this place has a wonderful assortment of perfume oils priced reasonably well, holistic toothpaste, aromatherapy oils and European massage oils that are unique and of high grade quality. My favorite perfume oil here is Eau de touche and only $5 which is half the amount you would be paying at other high end stores here in Chicago. I'm definitely delighted these people are still in business

Janelle S.

Yelp

I drove a long way from my home in the suburbs to Merz Apothecary as I discovered this gem years ago and found that they are the only store that carries my dad's very specific hair product. With the exception of 2020, I would go to the store once or twice a year to purchase a few bottles to last my dad a while. I went to the area in the store where it would typically be stocked and I didn't see it. I circled the aisles for about 5 minutes- all the while a male store clerk was standing less than 5 feet away, clearly saw me searching, and never once stepped in to ask if I needed help. Finally I approached him and asked if they still carry Yardley products. In one quick word he said, "no". Then I asked, "but you used to right?" And once again he vaguely responded "a long time ago". And that was it. Didn't offer an alternative. Didn't even care to ask what specific product I was looking for. I walked out of the store empty handed and very disappointed.

Danielle V.

Yelp

I love this place. I find so many incredible products here that I haven't seen anywhere else. The staff is super knowledgeable and willing to give advice.

Mo R.

Yelp

Merz is a wet shaver's dream shop. Amazing selection and great prices for a brick and mortar store. I love being able to smell all the different shaving soaps before I buy. Completely different than relying on a vendor's description online. I stop in every time I'm in Chicago.

Joanna T.

Yelp

I'm a frequent shopper at Merz's online boutique (Smallflower.com) and have stopped into their downtown location in the Palmer House a few times, but this weekend was my first trip to the flagship store in Lincoln Square. If I were a good enough person to go to heaven (I'm not) this would be what my personal Valhalla would look like. Merz's is a warm, welcoming store that's absolutely packed with all of the best bath, body and personal care items the world has to offer. Because it's a small space, take your time browsing so you don't miss any of the treasures they have to offer. If you need help or a recommendation, there are plenty of helpful associates on hand to steer you in the right direction. Although I love the downtown location, this Merz's definitely has "more" stuff to pick from, including lots of homeopathic remedies, natural health products, grooming essentials for the whole family, and an adjoining storefront (called Q Brothers) that specializes in men's shaving tools. Because there's so much to pick from, I offer a list of my personal favorites: *Hand cream from Santa Maria Novella. It's hard to find and way expensive but worth every penny. *German Nivea cream - it's not the same formula we get in the US and basically has all of the same ingredients as the insanely expensive Crème de Mer. *Kamille or Lobello lip balms from Germany - way better than Chapstick *Proraso shaving supplies - my husband's favorite *Marvis toothpaste - these tubes last a long, long time and they have unique flavors Honestly, if I listed all of my favorites we'd be here all day and I'd exceed the 5000 word review max. Just know that the staff is helpful, the selections are well curated and you're sure to find a thing or two that you won't be able to live without!

mary r.

Yelp

I've gone to this store for years. Never have I been disappointed with the knowledge of everyone I've been helped by. From questions and products helping my child's needs when she was growing up. To health supplements for me as I grow older. And now looking for a summer fragrance. Sometimes in life you just want to make , what perfume am I going to wear ?,, the hardest part of your day. I was helped by a lovely young lady named Grace. Her name says it all. She helped me look and smell the collection of things that interested me with such a non rushed fashion that I felt like I was on vacation for a short time. I appreciated her knowledge and easy going demeanor. I left purchasing a few samples. I'm sure one of these will work. Can't wait to go back a enjoy buying a bottle of perfume from her.

https://onthegrid.city/chicago/lincoln-square/merz-apothecary

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