It's hard not to like a place called Bockwinkel's. Just saying the name (BOCK-winkle's!) is more fun than we've had in months.

Bockwinkel's is the kind of small, but classy, cool and accommodating grocery store that you're only likely to find in the downtown part of Chicago. It has everything that the bigger grocery stores like Dominick's and Jewel have, perhaps in lesser quantity, whilst simultaneously being of much higher quality. And isn't quality what really matters? Top-notch fresh fruit; USDA choice or better slabs of meat; a variety of vegetables so delightfully delicious-looking they'll have your taste buds dancing atop your wild and wagging tongue; and a pretty big selection of domestic and imported wine, beer and liquor (for such a small store, anyway) are each just pieces of the whole beautiful puzzle that is Bockwinkel's. Golly, it's as fun to type as it is to say!

Additionally, Bock's has an extensive Boar's Head deli selection, serving meats, cheeses and amazing sandwiches, too (and cakes on the side). In the back, they serve Papa Nicholas’ freshly roasted coffee to brighten your boring day. And the salad bar, though sort of lacking in the option department, comes in handy when all you want is said salad. It makes you wonder: Is there anything Bock's doesn't do?

Probably, but whatever it is, it won't be immediately apparent. And in the end, isn't that what really matters in a grocery store? That and a name like BOCKwinkel's!

Centerstage Reviewer: Benjamin Andrew Moore