With a remarkable commitment to customer satisfaction and environmental responsibility since 2012, this Chicago-based bike shop is making waves with its unique approach. Proudly announcing itself as the first completely Chicago-made bike since Schwinn’s departure in the 1970s, this shop not only emphasizes eco-friendly transportation but also champions local manufacturing.

Owned by Michael Salvatore, the shop is located in a cozy setting that feels like home and boasts the aroma of the best coffee you’ll ever experience. This shop is more than just a place to buy a bike. Heritage seamlessly blends the culture of biking with the love of coffee, offering a unique experience that brings these two worlds together in perfect harmony.

“We are excited to share all this with you,” says Salvatore. “Whether you’re here to fix a flat tire, grab a latte, or explore our latest seasonal offerings from Heritage Coffee, our goal is to make you feel at home in Chicago’s original bike café.”

However, the shop has faced challenges beyond the usual business operations. In recent years, there have been four break-ins, adding to the growing concerns about crime in the area. The rate of robberies, burglaries, and break-ins have all been up in Lakeview’s Town Hall (19th) police district year-over-year, according to police data. Burglaries are up 45 percent this year in the 19th District, and in May alone, burglaries surged by 162 percent compared to the same period last year. The 19th District encompasses Lakeview, Uptown, Lincoln Park, Roscoe Village, Bricktown, Ravenswood, and Lincoln Square.

“The neighborhood is fed up with it, the retailers are fed up with it, and the restaurateurs across the city have all been hit,” Salvatore shared. “I just don’t know what the next steps are. Where can we go from here and how can this be fixed?”

Lakeview Ald. Bennett Lawson (44th) has been in talks with police about the uptick in such crimes and noted that many of the 19th District crimes are not unique to the area. Small businesses across Chicago have dealt with a rash of burglaries and armed robberies in recent years. Some business owners have stopped accepting cash, while some business districts have added private security to address the crime.

Despite these setbacks, Heritage has become a haven for bike enthusiasts and coffee lovers alike. Visitors can find everything from vintage-inspired, handcrafted bicycles to the finest coffee beans, all under one roof. The shop’s unique concept has seen customers come in for a cup of coffee and leave with a beautifully crafted bike, or arrive seeking bike accessories and leave with a bag of world-class coffee.

As Chicago continues to embrace sustainable living and local craftsmanship, Heritage stands out as a shining example of how two seemingly unrelated passions can come together to create something truly special, even in the face of adversity.

Support your local bike stores and coffee shops. They need the support, as a city, we need to support each other for our city to survive.

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