BUSBOYS and POETS

Busboys and Poets is impressive on a number of levels, making it worthy of an individual post. I intended to dine at the location nearest to my hostel; however, stumbled upon a different one purely by accident.

While this spot was extremely appealing (especially the patio), I decided to stick with my original plan due to some anticipated imbibing. I couldn't leave without taking a few snaps though (5th Street and K).

Busboys and Poets offers flavorful food, energetic background music, an eclectic decor, fun vibe, and cool events. Drooling on your keyboard is absolutely permitted at this time while viewing my yummy dishes at the flagship location (2021 14th Street NW).

Coconut Tofu Bites

Harira Soup

I also enjoyed a House Salad with baby kale, tomatoes, carrots, jicama and yuzu vinaigrette. All this mouth-watering food was paired with glasses of Pinot Grigio and Chenin Blanc.

Even though I was ready to bust a gut, I couldn't leave without browsing the interesting selection of books. 

 

Oh how I wish I could be a regular at this extraordinary restaurant.  http://bit.ly/1f48r2Q
 

EXPERIENCE THE LAST BOOKSTORE

The Last Bookstore is quirky, artsy, and astonishing. Upon entering, you will quickly fail to remember that you are in a bookstore.

Your eyes will bulge, especially once you reach the mezzanine level. This floor includes the Labyrinth and the Spring Arts Collective gallery shops. 
 

You can find more than 100,000 books for $1 in the back room of the Labyrinth, but I bet the first time you arrive, you will be too busy taking snaps.
 

The Last Bookstore will also keep you entertained, hosting events like Open Mic Night, Downtown Art Walk, and author signings. 

This is the type of place where you enter as an adult, and leave feeling like a kid in a fairytale. http://lastbookstorela.com/ 

The Central Library in Madison is a work of art!

Madison is experiencing a dreadful winter that has me hibernating and shuddering at the thought of leaving my humble abode.  One of the few reasons to venture out; however, is to spend time at the newly renovated Central Library.

 

I don't believe I have ever seen a library that is so modern and a work of art in itself.  I couldn't stop wandering around, dumbfounded at the beauty that surrounded me the first time I stepped through the sacred doors. 

I still haven't accepted the fact that this is a library and I should be looking for books or DVD's to check out.

The library even has a very inviting area just for teens, so try to get them home in time for dinner.

It's anticipated that more than one million people will visit in the first year.  Shouldn't that qualify for the Guinness Book of World Records?

The impressive venue offers a cafe, sound booth, rooftop terrace and a whole lot more.  

Whether you are just passing through or live in the area, you need to get to know the Central Library.  It can save you from the winter blues.

Bookmark http://madisonbubbler.org/ (it has nothing to do with water fountains) to get all the latest and greatest news.

Absolutely Art is absolutely fantastic!

The lovely front window

I have a huge appreciation for the arts, because in my opinion, the world would be drab and unattractive without it.  Artists give us so much - creativity, color, beauty, and a reason to strike up a conversation.

So pretty, bright and cheery

I read about an interesting exhibit by June Gengler at Absolutely Art.  Taken from their website - Gengler practices the German/Swiss folk art of Scherenschnitte (Scheren-scissors/schnitte-cut). These silhouette pictures are usually cut from one piece of black paper with all parts of the picture connected. June occasionally adds a spot of color with a paper underlay, or a bit of watercolor. 

Can you believe she uses these tiny scissors?

This style of art was new to me, so I decided to check it out.  After walking through Absolutely Art's door, I was thrilled that I did.  This place is pure magic!  I was also lucky enough to meet and have a chat with the owner, Meghan Blake-Horst.

I couldn't agree more

Not only do they have the work of numerous artists available for sale, they showcase one new artist each month.  Gengler is obviously September's artist, and you can see this talent's unique exhibit until the end of the month.

A few of her wonderful pieces

One thing I really admire about Absolutely Art is how family friendly it is.  They have this great chalkboard available for kids to use, and Meghan shared that sometimes a school desk is available with supplies.  Very cool indeed!

Adults can play too

There are so many great pieces for sale, that it was difficult to make a decision.  Due to my finances, I had to decide on one item for me and one as a gift for my mom.  I will return soon for gifts for me:)

How does one choose?

Once you are able to pull yourself away, you can pop next door to Cafe Zoma for a coffee and snack.  The two businesses share common space including an excellent patio where you can relax.  If the kids are in tow, there's outdoor playground equipment to keep them entertained.  It's a win-win for the whole family!

Got you covered if you want a book

Even unique wares outside

Adult and kid friendly patio

Do yourself a favor and get enlightened at Absolutely Art.  You will be glad you did.


http://www.absolutelyartllc.com/

Book lovers unite! At Prospero's Bookstore!

Even the outside is delightful

I'm happy to say the first stop during my trip to Kansas City was the noteworthy Prospero's Bookstore.  After doing some research of what to see and do, the store was at the top of my list.  I had the pleasure of meeting and chatting with Will, the founder and co-owner of this very charming bookstore.  Talk about friendly and full of knowledge!

Adore this tower of books

The agony of wanting to play with this

This is the type of bookstore that once you get inside it will be hard to leave.  If I had not been on such a tight schedule, I would have made a return visit.  Not only do they have an extraordinary selection of gently used books, DVDs, VHS, CD's and vinyl, there is marvelous art and other trinkets to feast your eyes upon throughout the store.

Great piece of art!

An interesting combination, right?

I think the most fascinating thing I learned from Will is the story behind the cauldron and pieces of mirror attached to the outside wall of the building.  Each of the mirror pieces had writing on them.  I walked by it en route to the front door and was immediately intrigued, so I had to ask.

Really wanted to walk out with this chair, but....

There are little private areas to read in between the shelves

Will told me the mirror pieces are shaped like flames and were placed above the cauldron that the books were burned in.  On each mirror piece, they etched snippets of original poetry penned by local poets.  In the morning, the mirrors catch the sunrise and can look like real fire (sorry I missed that).

Love this unique display of art and books

You are probably asking yourself "why were books burned in a cauldron?"  I promise it has nothing to do with witches!  I think the best way to learn about that is to read the story on their website.  The event actually attracted national attention.        http://tinyurl.com/mo2l9ux

I think you now have a good idea why Prospero's Bookstore is a must-see in Kansas City.  I was told they just opened up a new location that also features a cafe, so I already have one thing on my to do list for next time.

Trying to imagine what it was like