We’re not sure if residents near Noyes Street are intentionally keeping them a tight-lipped secret or if these cute, humble shops are really just not getting any attention. Either way, it should be known that there are some real gems tucked in this residential, quiet corner of Evanston.

Photo by Maggie Gorman

I Dream Of Sweets (I.D.O.S.) Bistro is a perfect example of these often overlooked shops. Inside you’ll find a light, airy space filled with eclectic artwork and rustic French countryside furnishings. Sunlight fills the room, and each table is adorned with a unique vase displaying colorful flowers. Bistros typically offer earthier, simpler, robust foods and I.D.O.S. is no exception. The menu features both your basic paninis along with some more interesting combos, a fantastic array of pastries (the cupcakes are really like individual-sized cakes), quiche and coffee. You can even purchase kitschy décor in a little corner by the register. As if this weren’t enough, there are drawers of candy. Yep, drawers. Full of candy. Free candy.

Photo by Maggie Gorman

The quaint study area is perfect for people-watching or spending a Sunday curled on the couch doing homework by the window. I.D.O.S.’s quiet, calming interior invites you to stay all day and eat cupcakes to your heart’s content. But if you’re feeling up for a more adventurous dining experience, I.D.O.S. also features gourmet dishes dreamed up by its two chefs, one of whom hails from Florence with a background in Italian cooking. We recommend you try the Pear Passion Lasagna, which is odd in theory but delicious in practice. Pears soaked in white wine mingle with figs, goat cheese and artichoke hearts between two lasagna noodles drizzled with honey.  It’s a savory-sweet, cheesy delicacy that you can feel proud to eat.

Photo by Maggie Gorman

Vegetables get the sweet treatment as well in the Carrot Cake Cupcake, which is not only huge but also perfectly dense, moist and covered in a cream cheese frosting that will make you completely forget you’re ingesting vegetables.

Photo by Maggie Gorman

At I.D.O.S. you’re free to eat candy from a drawer, eat pears with your noodles, and eat carrots in your cupcake. Who wouldn’t appreciate such a liberatingly delicious eatery? So pick a nice day, make a short detour on your way out of Tech, and give this little bistro the attention it deserves. Then tell all your friends….maybe.