Bourgie wine bars are normally not on my list of p...

Bourgie wine bars are normally not on my list of places to be. But, this one happens to have an impressive collection of used books, with some hidden gems. Wall-to-wall book shelves, reminiscent of some estate library archive, wind their way throughout both levels. There are lots of cozy nooks, and plush furniture, tucked within this giant maze of books, inviting customers to lounge, at their leisure.

However, there are signs, all over, discouraging customers from reading any books, until they've been purchased. And, despite paying for my books, no sooner had I settled down to lose myself in my book, I was promptly asked to vacate their precious lounge, unless I intended on purchasing drinks.

Talk about a total buzz kill. Imagine, just lifting off, for a exciting hot air balloon ride, barely off the ground, only to have the smiling ground crew shoot holes in your big beautiful balloon, yank you from the basket before it even touches back down, and promptly send you on your way.

So, yeah, 4 stars...it would have been 3, if it wasn't for their loverly bar tender, Jillian, with whom I chatted, as I was leaving.

To be fair, the governor, and his entourage, were in the store at the time. Though I had no jacket, I wasn't dressed shabbily. I imagine, there were a thousand different worries besides me. Nevertheless, I treasure most the businesses that treasure their locals. I likely would have bought a beverage, if I was invited to stay with that suggestion.