Tianguis

Unfortunately, Tianguis closed at the end of December, 2008. Irasema has moved her bookstore operations online and is continuing with her Proyecto Latina programming. She has also recently embarked on a radio program on Radio Arte 90.5 FM. Details can be found on the Tianguis website and fans of the store can keep up with Tianguis activities and projects on Irasema’s blog.

I’ve spent hours in Tianguis using the internet. The owner is a joy to talk to, is helpful, and friendly. The tea is great and so is the coffee. She features various latino artists and authors.

This is a tiny little café, but it’s adorable and the owner is extremely sweet. She had a great selection of Mexican-​American art, literature and gifts, including these awesome tee-​shirts with images of loteria cards on them. It was bright and sunny inside, and definitely seemed like a great little place to sit and have tea or coffee before trekking home on the El.

Tianguis Bookstore & Café is a VERY small Bookstore and coffee/​tea shop with free WiFi just across the street from the Damen Pink/​Blue Line (54/​Cermak line) EL stop.
I came in and was warmly greeted by a friendly staff person. I ordered a white/​melon tea. Yum! They serve their teas iced or hot, Intelligencia coffee and even bubble teas.
There was calm Jazz music playing and a couple of other patrons at other tables (there are only 3 tables – all 3 close to power outlets, but also 4 armchairs).
I would wholeheartedly endorse coming here the next time you’re in Pilsen. They say they «celebrate Latino literature from established authors and to help nurture emerging voices». They also have a book club and stitching circle.