photo: Alicia Eler

After stepping off the train, do you usually just drag your weary feet straight home? At the Damen Pink Line stop, this charming bookstore will deter you from your usual post-work pass-out routine. Owners Irasema and Mario Gonzalez began their bookish adventures first at the Pilsen Open Studios in 2005 on two fold-out tables. From there, they moved into the back of a coffee shop and, in 2006, decided to take the plunge by creating their own bookstore and coffee shop/teahouse proper. A handful of tables, free wi-fi, Intelligentsia coffee, a wide selection of teas and books galore aim to please anyone who drops in. Although the bookstore is located in Pilsen, a predominantly Latino neighborhood, Irasema Gonzalez says "We carry mostly English-language Latino-interest books. People always assume we only have Spanish-language books." Though they are expanding their Spanish-language books section, this is not their main focus. If there's a book you're looking for that's not in stock, though, they will gladly order it for you.

As if the friendly service, great selection of books and coffee shop atmosphere weren't enough, the progressive bookstore also hosts a monthly book club. Featured books include Felicia Luna Lemus' Like Son, about a transgender Mexican-American man trying to find his place in the world. Sometimes people don't finish the book, but "that's ok," says Gonzalez. "We still want you to come to the book club meetings." Every third Monday, an open mic series called Proyecto Latina, a collaboration between Teatro Luna, Tianguis and Mariposa Atomica Ink, features local Latina poets and performers like talented poet and associate director of the Chicago Freedom School, Stephanie Gentry-Fernandez. Participants can speak in whatever language they prefer (en el idioma que prefieras).

Here's an insider tip for that writer who wants to sit all day sipping coffee and surfing the web with Tianguis's free wi-fi, but can't afford to eat bagels or muffins all-day long. Gonzalez says that sometimes people bring their own sandwiches or food in, and she'll heat them up in her microwave if you ask. If your breath tastes too much like coffee to keep sipping, try one of the amazing bubble teas. Splenda is added per request, too!

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Alicia Eler