Right around the corner from the LivingRoom Gallery, at the intersection of Chicago Ave. and Amour, is the sprawling Mercury Café. With 4000 square feet of space, Mercury has a cavernous feel, making it as good a place to hide out as it is to people watch. Basic and eclectic furniture and a freshly prepared, Italian inspired menu of soups, sandwiches and salads compose this vegetarian friendly spot. Easy going staff are more then happy leaving you to linger over a cup of tea or coffee while taking advantage of their free wireless internet connection.

They have a mix-n-match shelf of books for browsing, but if you’re in the mood for live entertainment, or want to be that live entertainment, check their calendar of events that every month frequently features open mics, lounge bands, and art openings.

--Thea Liberty Nichols