Owner Amy Garman opened the South Loop Wine Cellar to recreate the atmosphere of a Southern California wine store she frequented during her collegiate summers. It's quickly becoming a neighborhood institution, offering classes (about $25 each) that feature tastings and instruction on specific wine types, and a wine club membership that gets you five percent off purchases and free admission to tastings.

But South Loop Wine Cellar is fine with its wine being drunk off the premises, too. As a courtesy to those looking to buy a bunch of bottles, the store will even deliver orders of $25 or more for free from 5 to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Centerstage Reviewer: Erin Brereton