Testimonials
We’re so proud of all we offer our customers, from our collection of merchandise, to our great prices, to our friendly personalized service.
These are just some of the wonderful testimonials we’ve received from Yelp.
Many thanks to all those who spread the word!
“I spend more time than I care to admit in antique stores and outdoor markets ranging from Evanston into Chicago, and over to Southwest Michigan. This place is by far the best! Their prices are insanely reasonable - which means turnover is fast- I try and go once a week to make sure I don't miss any great stuff. The staff is friendly without talking your ear off while you shop, and I never feel rushed to make a purchase, even if I wander through the entire shop two or three times to make sure I've seen everything. Definitely one of the best things about living in Evanston!”
“THE most organized antique store I have ever had the pleasure of visiting!
A friend and I just had a moment to swing through, but that was enough, given the fact that it was so easy to find everything. Everything was divided and demarcated very clearly. For example, I collect certain types of postcards, and at most places you'll find, like, a shoebox full with no rhyme or reason, which could take you half an hour to thumb through. Here, all the cards were in a revolving rack, AND sorted by theme. I found a couple right away! We didn't waste time and get to see that much more of the stock because we didn't have to spend time poking through just one box.
So much great stuff. Secret Treasures is definitely a treasure itself!”“This place is great! And the owner is so trustworthy and kind. My mom (Anne) has been coming here for years and years and is always speaking very highly of this spot.
They have a bit of everything AND if you talk to them and tell them that you are looking for anything in particular, they take note of it and stay on the look out. Which is what they do for my mom and even call her back months and months later when they find whatever item she is looking for. I got an huge Amber Sterling Silver ring for only $55. That's another thing... everything is so very affordable!
They are dedicated to making all their patrons happy and create a wonderful community spirit. I will most definitely come back.”“It's physically impossible for me to overstate how much I adore this shop…With a beautiful assortment of antiques, vintage treasures, oddities, and glassware, this is a deal-seeker's heaven. Laid out perfectly in a space that would feel claustrophobic in less-skilled hands, Secret Treasures is a delightful afternoon adventure for lovers of antiques…There are more delights to be found in the nooks and crannies of this little shop than you would imagine!
…Priced-To-Sell unlike so many of their competitors, Secret Treasures is able to keep a steady flow of new stock by the fact that they sell what they buy. This is a store that is completely disinterested in creating a museum of pieces that *might* sell someday. With new stock each and every day, this is not a place to think, "Hmmm... I'll wait and come back later." If you like it, slap a ring on it because it's not going to be there by the time you get back.”“What a great place, huge selection of china and silver. The prices can't be beat and the staff is really knowledgable. It's hard to find trustworthy antique dealers that are honest and upfront...and we found it here!
This is probably going to be our new 'go to' place for our antique collecting and gift buying. Worth the trip from Hyde Park!”
From the Press
Since opening our doors 27 years ago, our little store has also seen its fair share of recognition in the media.
Please enjoy learning about our work.
Best of Chicago 2011: Vintage Housewares
“When Dawn Okamoto opened Secret Treasures nearly 18 years ago, she wasn’t sure there was a market for fun, affordable vintage housewares. Since then, the masses have caught up with Okamoto’s taste. Her offerings include 1940s printed tablecloths, costume jewelry, Mad Men–style martini glasses, and pressed-glass cake stands. “These aren’t investment pieces, just collectibles that still function,” she says. Okamoto and her staff are passionate about changing it up seasonally: In the summer, there are watering cans and 48-star flags; in the winter, you can pick up tree ornaments like Grandma used to hang.” — Chicago Magazine
Selected one of Chicago Magazine’s “Best Vintage Vendors” (March 2009):
“Now in its 15th year, Secret Treasures Antiques and Collectibles ... stocks fine china, colored glass dishes, jewelry, and odds and ends (we loved a bowl of Bakelite dice).” — Chicago Magazine
Chicago North Shore Home & Beyond
“My favourite Evanston antique shop is, Secret Treasures, located on Dempster Street and Chicago Avenue. Most of the items you will find here date from the 1920s to 1950s. You might even find a 1950s Radio Flyer Wagon or an original 1940s military issued Hamilton watch. It’s always an uncertainty to see what might appear, which is half the fun.”
Garage Sale Warrior, Chicago Now Blogs
“Secret Treasures is a destination shop at 605 Dempster in Evanston. It's well-known by anybody who's into vintage china, colored glass dishes, jewelry and odds and ends. It occupies two small storefronts on Dempster with plenty of eye candy and charming little things to give and feather your nest. Yelp commenters seem to be fans of the prices, too.”
Poor Little Rich Girls - Chicago Edition
“When you walk past the storefront of Secret Treasures you can’t help but to be drawn in by the bright and cheery array of vintage home décor items in the window. This is the go-to store if you want to give your apartment a blast from the past as they offer a variety of retro house-wares such as depression glass, vintage Fiesta wear, tablecloths, napkins, and small furniture. There is also a small assortment of jewelry and on occasion some great hats. Secret Treasures is best described as shabby chic meets kitsch that is reasonably priced. You won’t be disappointed!”