Has anyone been to Rapid Transit Cycles on North? I emailed the shop and got a really nice reply so I thought I'd give them (and the Jamis Coda) a look.
Electra Townie 7D
I recommend Turin Bicycle on Davis St over the Pony Shop. Turin is also in Evanston: http://turinbicycle.com/
There are coffee shops and restaurants (and cinemas) around the Turin block, both on Davis and in the next street, Church, in case you need to wait while your SO's bike gets serviced. On Church, just east of the Metra station, there is an decent Italian coffee / gelato shop.
I just learned of this link today... it might be helpful as you scout out other Chicago shops to visit.
http://www.chicagobikeshops.info/