The Book Cellar has been a neighborhood staple since 2004, combining books, wine, and cozy couches in the heart of Chicago’s Lincoln Square. Its owner, longtime Chicagoan Suzy Takacs, founded the shop as a space where literature and community could come together. Now, she’s sharing some of her favorite Chicago spots that every book lover should know.
Q: What led you to opening The Book Cellar?
A: I live not too far from here. In 2002, there weren’t so many bookstores in Chicago and I thought we could use one in our area. I really wanted to combine books and wine. I met with the alderman to review my business plan and he said he was trying to recruit an independent bookstore because the neighbors were requesting one. It was perfect timing.
Q: What do you love most about running a bookshop in Chicago?
A: The people I work with and the people who shop here.
Q: Favorite thing about living in Chicago?
A: It’s the perfect mix of things to do: restaurants, lakefront, sports, theater, friends.
Q: Any insider tips on traveling to Chicago?
A: There are some great hotels on the North Side. You do not have to stay downtown.
Q:What’s a hidden gem that most tourists overlook?
A: Taking the yellow water taxi all the way to Chinatown, stopping off for dim sum, and taking a return trip on the taxi back to River North. The water taxi is about $10 for a day pass and it is a terrific view of the city.
Q: Describe your perfect day off in Chicago.
A: Lunch at one of my favorite outdoor cafes with a glass of rose or margarita. And the lunch lasts so long it rolls into dinner…
Q: What’s a local saying or inside joke travelers should know?
A: The Windy City does not mean it is windy in Chicago. The saying refers to the politicians in Chicago.
Q: What’s one underrated neighborhood or street travelers should explore?
A: Printer’s Row. Cute book shop, wine shop, knitting shop, and restaurants.
Q: What’s something travelers often misunderstand or overlook about Chicago?
A: Chicago has a phenomenal theater scene and food scene. I believe it rivals NYC and LA.
Q: Who is your favorite local author or literary figure?
A: Studs Terkel
Q: What’s a book that represents Chicago well?
A: I can’t choose one! “Division Street” by Studs Terkel, “Windy City Blues” by Renee Rosen, “Sin In The Second City” by Karen Abbott, and “City of Scoundrels” by Gary Krist.
Q: Are there any bookish events (readings, festivals, etc.) travelers should know about?
A: We host many events at The Book Cellar. In fact, there are maybe over 40 live lit reading series in Chicago, many of which occur monthly.
Q: If a book lover had just one day in Chicago, what should they do?
A: Visit as many book shops as possible. We have a bajillion!
Q: If Chicago were a genre or character, what would it be?
A: Food narrative and Elizabeth Zott from “Lessons in Chemistry.”
Q: Best place to spend a lazy afternoon with a book?
A: At the lakefront.
Quick Hits
- Favorite book or movie set in, based on, or about Chicago: “Devil In the White City” (book) or “Christmas in Chicago” (movie)
- Best time of year to visit Chicago: Fall
- Favorite local restaurant: Mott Street or Eden
- Favorite local bakery: Geraldine’s
- Favorite local coffee shop: The Book Cellar!
- Describe Chicago in one word: Supercalifragilisticexpialadocious
- Favorite museum or activity: Golf at Waveland Golf Course or Robert A. Black Golf Course
- Local charity to spotlight: Harmony House for Cats
Follow The Book Cellar on Instagram at bookcellarchicago.