One of three Chicago locations for this Chicagoland "beverage depot," Binny's is a drinker's paradise. Row upon row of wine, beer and liquor abound, logically separated and clearly identified by overhead signs, making it a snap to pop in and head directly to the Argentinean Malbec. An overwhelming number of bottles can pose a difficult decision, though the instantly-ready-to-help staff, wide range of prices (you can easily spend $7 or $70) and occasional helpful review tacked up nearby eases the confusion. The Frugal Wine Lover's Club is a smart bet for folks who love their Viognier: You'll get a 2 percent rebate for every $500 of purchases, enjoy a 5-percent discount on cases and save on exclusive sales.

Want a little cheese with that wine? Binny's gourmet shop offers plenty of snacks to go with your six-pack. La Rocca frozen pizza is perfect for a casual night; entertainers can stock up on smoked salmon and salami. A substantial cheese counter wisely offers up pairing info, from the general ("great appetizer cheeses") to the specific (the Italian Teleggio, at $11.99 per pound, is a "richly textured complement to big Italian red wine").

Centerstage Reviewer: Kate Schwartz