Our own local haven dreamed into reality

Where tea, music, and the arts come together to create a whimsical community hub that blends vintage charm with contemporary culture.

The Madame Zuzu's Story

Madame Zuzu’s was co-founded in 2012 by Billy Corgan and Chloé Mendel in Highland Park, Illinois, as a small, plant-based teahouse. What began as a whimsical space for tea and conversation has since grown into something much more—a vibrant café serving a wide variety of teas and plant-forward dishes, a vinyl record shop known for its limited-edition releases, a live music venue, and a welcoming art space.

Our new Highland Park location carries forward that spirit, now set in a larger Art Deco-inspired space reminiscent of a 1930s tea salon. Beyond simply serving food and drink, Zuzu’s exists as a gathering place—an inclusive, unpretentious environment where art, music, and community come together.

For Billy and Chloé, Madame Zuzu’s has always been about more than just tea. It’s about creating a positive shift, especially in challenging times—offering jobs, supporting artists, and giving the North Shore community a place to connect, celebrate, and belong.

Billy Corgan

Billy Corgan

Co-Founder & Creative Visionary

Billy Corgan has always lived at the intersection of music, art, and storytelling. With Madame Zuzu’s, he extends that vision beyond the stage—creating a place where people can gather, discover, and feel at home. From live performances to the release of limited-edition vinyl, Billy is passionate about making Zuzu’s a destination for those who don’t quite fit into the mainstream. His goal is simple: to build the best possible experience for enjoying music, collecting cool things, and connecting with others in a welcoming, creative space.

Chloé Mendel

Chloé Mendel

Co-Founder & CEO

Chloé believes that food, drink, and music have a unique power to bring people together. At Madame Zuzu’s, she weaves those elements into an atmosphere where sharing a meal, discovering new teas, or hearing a live set all feel equally special. Her passion for sustainability, community, and creating memorable experiences shapes everything from the café menu to Zuzu’s signature vinyl releases. For Chloé, Zuzu’s is a neighborhood haven for anyone seeking connection, creativity, and a sense of belonging—especially those who’ve never felt like they fit in elsewhere.

Our Teas & Community

At Madame Zuzu’s, tea is more than just a drink—it’s an experience meant to be shared. We source thoughtfully and craft with care, offering blends that bring comfort, curiosity, and conversation to the table. But Zuzu’s has always been about more than what’s in the cup.

Here, tea meets music, food, and art in a welcoming space designed for creativity and connection. From live performances and limited-edition vinyl releases to plant-forward dishes and sustainably sourced teas, we strive to create experiences that bring people together.

Rooted in Highland Park, we’re proud to provide jobs, support artists, and contribute to the North Shore community with an inclusive, unpretentious environment where everyone can feel at home.

Visit Our Whimsical World

Experience the magic that Billy and Chloé have created in Highland Park. Join us for tea, discover limited edition vinyl, enjoy live music, and become part of our warm, welcoming community.