I spent a little time in Andersonville, IL this past weekend with my cousins. Very lovely, very Swedish place. If you’re ever in the area, check out Icosium Kafé. It’s a North African creperie that isn’t too expensive. Pretty decor with silver mirrors and pineapples. I had the salmon and goat cheese crepe because of meat, which is totally a valid reason. It’s very vegetarian friendly. Algerian coffee is good and muddy-licious, but it’s not my thing. Instead, I ordered the organic apple juice. Loved it.
Other than that…
Sometimes there are puppet shows on a bike with tiny disco ball included. Charming and surprising to see that while walking at night. It’s cold, man. Thank you for adding some happiness to that night. Can’t help but think you were naked in there, but I loved the show anyway. Puppet Bike: Tip generously.
Also, I tried out Dr. Sketchy’s in Chicago, about 22 minutes drive from Andersonville. It was my first time going to a Dr. Sketchy event. Surprised to see more costumes than nakedness, but there was enough nudity to study from. Sparkly cod pieces and gleaming nipple tassels by the butt-load. The gathering was small and intimate, and there were group activities and networking. Best drawing gets picked out by the models at the end of the 3 hour session with art book prizes in store. April 14th is the next event — Comic Stripper. A fitting name for burlesque-type activity. Bring business cards.
Foursided. Just go there. Seriously, it’s right there. There’s always something interesting to look at.
For the feminist ladies, men, and children: Women & Children First. Features lots of local and indie artists. Grabbed some great books about freelancing and developing characters for stories.
Swedish Bakery. Okay, so the traditional cannoli may have or may not have gave me a bug in terms of going bathroom every 2 hours, but the cookies are good and don’t cause any pain, so stick with the cookies. I haven’t tried the cakes or tarts, so be wary (and let me know!). Perpetually smells like gingerbread in there.
Located at the end of an alley, Alleycat Comics is a nicely set up comic book store. Small, but there are good finds in there if you’re willing to look. Check out the bulletin board for local movie events.
Need a custom t-shirt? T-shirt Deli provides made to order shirts and wraps them up in butcher’s paper with twine. You can even buy potato chips as a side. Sales rack is called “Day Old Bread.” Puppet Bike is parked right outside.
Lastly, if you’re a Walking Dead fan, Fat Cat Bar holds viewing parties in the back room at 8 PM. Get there early for good seating. Every french fry is the crunchy fry at the bottom of the box. Cozy atmosphere. Feels like going to a college club. The Thanksgiving sandwich is delicious and the waitresses wear thick framed glasses and cat eyeliner. Expect to spend about $25-$29 between two people if you order a soda and dinner each.
Well, this seemed more like a recommendation post, but I really enjoyed my visit. There are still a lot of shops I need to visit. Tons of artsy folk there. Lots of beards, slouchy hats, and Wayfayers. Boutiques galore. This could be a town related to Portland, Oregon in terms of feeling, but not in forestry. More dogs than bicyclists.
I’m sure I’ll be back there sometime soon. Great for people watching, so get those binoculars and creeper cams out.
– KmA
The Art & Times of A Hermit 