Northshore magazine showcases the best that the North Shore of Boston, MA has to offer.
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NORTHSHOREMAG.COM 34 JANUARY + FEBRUARY 2021 FAC E S + P L AC E S Andover has faced some major challenges in recent years. In September 2018, a series of gas fire and explosions ripped through the town, and neighboring North Andover and Lawrence, injuring dozens, killing one, damaging buildings, and shutting down businesses. It took months for service to be restored and repairs to be completed. Then, just as the community was recovering from the disaster, the coronavirus hit, bringing with it mandated closures and economic uncertainty. Today, however, after two years of evolving and adapting, the town is emerging poised for a future that is better than ever, with a thriving downtown that increasingly draws in locals and visitors and plans for even more retail space and eateries on the horizon. This resilience, say local business owners, can be credited to a strong community that believes in helping out its own during tough times. "Andover still has the small town feel where people like to support local businesses," says Roseann Williams, owner of Elm Square Oyster Co. "A lot of our regulars—and we have a lot—are local business owners supporting each other." For visitors looking to experience the community, Andover is a convenient destination, nestled into the intersection of routes 93 and 495. The commuter rail also serves the downtown area, for those who prefer car-free explorations. And it's worth the trip, says Annie Gilbert, chair of the town's board of selectmen. " You can amble around and find a whole range of restaurants, all kinds of shops and boutiques. And we have a lot of places where you can hike," she says. " You can spend a day here." Stylish shoppers will find a lot to love in Andover, whether they are looking for home Many of Andover's restaurants will be offering take-out meals all winter long. PHOTOGRAPH BY ISTOCK décor, apparel, or gifts. Boutique SoleAmour has recently expanded its footprint, allowing it to expand its selection of clothing alongside its inventory of footwear and accessories. Owner Stephanie Sipley attributes this growth to her customers' commitment to supporting her store through recent challenges. Across the street, Native Sun offers contemporary women's wear from top designers, refreshing its inventory every week, so there is always something new to check out. Native Sun is a sort-of newcomer : The store was a popular mainstay in Newburyport and Andover in the 1990s and 2000s, before closing for a time. This year, it returned to both towns. Visitors looking to embellish their homes can check out Savoir Faire Home for a range of furnishings, dishware, and décor, much of it sourced on owner Lisa Duffy's global buying trips. For more international inspiration, floral shop Les Fleurs is a required stop,