Hand-drawn hometown collection
A hand-drawn celebration of East Dundee, available exclusively at Eastside Cafe.
Community
East Dundee is a picturesque Fox River village where historic character and an active local scene go hand in hand. The Depot, river trail, downtown shops, Santa’s Village, and year-round events make it a welcoming community for neighbors and an easy day trip for visitors.
Where to find it
311 Barrington Ave
East Dundee, IL 60118
Store hours
Monday–Tuesday: 6:45 a.m.–2 p.m.
Wednesday–Thursday: 6:45 a.m.–9 p.m.
Friday: 6:45 a.m.–10 p.m.
Saturday: 7:30 a.m.–10 p.m.
Sunday: 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Checked September 14, 2026. Holiday, seasonal, and special-event hours may vary.
The collaboration
The East and West Dundee mugs began when the team at Elder + Oat approached me about creating designs for both communities. It was a fun collaboration and an opportunity to celebrate two distinct towns connected by the Fox River.
After Elder + Oat closed its doors, I had the privilege of connecting with Katie at Eastside Cafe. I am so grateful that she now carries both mugs. Our family especially loves East Dundee’s walkable downtown and restaurants, including the barbecue spot where everyone competes for the brisket.
The riverfront setting and the area’s pottery history also shaped the artwork, adding another layer of local character to the design.
The story behind the mug
Ashley partnered with Eastside Cafe to create a mug rooted in East Dundee.
Research and community input highlighted the Fox River, historic downtown, recreation, and Dundee traditions.
Ashley translated each selected place and symbol into an individual hand-drawn illustration.
The drawings were refined and arranged into a continuous design that rewards a closer look.
The finished mug became a locally available keepsake through Eastside Cafe.
Inside the illustration
Each element celebrates a recognizable part of the community’s history, landscape, gathering places, and everyday life.
East Dundee Depot helps tell the story of East Dundee and the character residents recognize as home.
Fox River helps tell the story of East Dundee and the character residents recognize as home.
Historic Downtown helps tell the story of East Dundee and the character residents recognize as home.
Santa’s Village helps tell the story of East Dundee and the character residents recognize as home.
Raceway Woods helps tell the story of East Dundee and the character residents recognize as home.
Dundee Bridge helps tell the story of East Dundee and the character residents recognize as home.
The creative process
The shape of East Dundee Depot helped establish the look of this mug. From there, I layered in Fox River, Historic Downtown, and Santa’s Village, using the contrasts between them to create a wraparound drawing that could only belong to East Dundee.
A meaningful local gift
A thoughtful choice for a realtor closing gift, new homeowner, or longtime resident, the artwork turns familiar East Dundee, Illinois landmarks into a useful keepsake rather than an ordinary souvenir.