Since most of Lincoln Road smells like French fries and wet dogs, Brownes & Co.’s aromatic lotions and potions are reason enough to step inside. The old-fashioned, rustic apothecary packs a punch with dozens of brands of cosmetics, fragrances, and skin and hair care.

Spritz on Agent Provocateur and Bond No. 9 perfumes, play with the color overload at the Nars bar, and sample products from Art of Shaving for gents to Dr. Hauschka for the skin-obsessed.

The upstairs yoga room, full salon (known as Some Like It Hot) and spa give Brownes & Co. extra oasis points.