Important News Regarding Central Street Parking

Central Street Update: The Dig Is On

Central Street is about to get a lot noisier, and parking is about to get a lot harder. The City’s water main project is now scheduled to begin Monday April 27th, a week earlier (and much more complicated) than we expected.

Despite our active advocacy, the City has finalized a plan that will prohibit all parking on BOTH the North and South sides of Central Street, from Broadway all the way west to the canal, seven days a week. This includes all loading zones, which means we will not even have space on Central for quick order pickups at our front door.

We support infrastructure improvements, but this total loss of parking access is a serious challenge for our staff and our fellow Central St. businesses. However, we refuse to let a little construction (and a lot of jackhammers) stand between you and your favorite sourdough.

To get your Hewn fix, you’re going to have to be a Hewn Hero. We are asking you to park on the side streets (be sure to note parking time restrictions), use the Metra lot, (there are nineteen free two hour spaces and four free 30 minute spaces!) or bike/walk over to the store. Be sure to check out the new covered bike parking on the corner of Central, Broadway and Poplar!

When you make the effort to visit us during construction, you aren’t just a customer - you’re a hero, helping us to keep our team working and the business running.

Check out the parking and access guide below for more details:

How We’re Making it “Worth the Walk”:

#BeAHewnHero Rewards: We are launching a digital loyalty program on Square for our Evanston customers. Enter your phone number at the register to earn points for braving the barricades. Customers obtain one point for each visit with a purchase over $10 to earn the following prizes:

Five points: One free “Construction Survival Loaf”

Ten points: One free Hewn Sandwich

Twenty points: One free Hewn ‘Construction Survivor' t-shirt. (A limited edition shirt that is earned, never bought!)

Winnetka is Your 'Easy' Button: Our Winnetka shop (894 Green Bay Rd) has unlimited free street and lot parking. So, if you’re in a rush, head north! It’s just a quick 14 minute drive from Hewn Evanston, or an easy Metra ride to the Hubbard Woods stop. Be sure to check out some of the cute boutiques, delicious restaurants and the beautiful and fun Hubbard Woods Park while you are there!

Square Same Day Orders and Curbside Pickup: Customers in Evanston will be able to order online for same day pick up during the construction period! And, if you can’t find a spot, we have you covered with our temporary construction curbside service. Pull up to Broadway on the corner of Central Street, turn on your hazards and give us a call to let us know the name on your online order and the make/color of your car. One of our team members will run your order right out to you!

Special Items: Be on the lookout for some new specials, available only in Evanston during this construction period. We are particularly excited about our “Construction Croissant,” which we will reveal later this week! Check out our Instagram feed for the latest product info and for continued updates and information about the project.

Mother’s Day Weekend

The parking situation is causing us some increased stress as it is scheduled to take place during one of our busiest months of the year. Mother’s Day, high school and Northwestern graduations and Memorial Day weekend will all be affected by the construction on Central Street.

That being said, for Mother’s Day, be sure to arrive early for the best selection of walk-in items. Remember, the sidewalk is clear! We have wonderful specials available for pre-order on Tock, including Veggie Quiche, Passionfruit Cheesecake, a special croissant box (see photo below) and several take and bake and bread options. In addition, we have some unique gift options, including our special Mother’s Day Gift Box which includes Middle Child Pancake Mix, B&E’s Trees Maple Syrup, American Spoon Jam and a pro-grade Thermoworks Red Silicone Spatula. You can also pre-order a Bee's Wrap Market Tote. This reusable bag is made from durable, GOTS-certified organic cotton, and features an interior pocket and sleeve. Pick ups will take place Saturday May 9th or Sunday May 10th at all locations!