When planning a meetup at My House, it's important not to fall into a sort of Abbott and Costello routine:

"Where should we meet?"

"My House on Fullerton."

"I thought you lived on Foster!"

"Not 'my house,' My House!"

You get the idea. Though potentially confusing, My House's name is appropriate. The Logan Square cafe evokes a comfortable living room. It's so homey that when you walk in, you almost feel as if you're interrupting something. Patrons lounge on the beat-up couches and rocking chairs, and there's one large dinner table dominating the middle of the shop. Almost every other flat surface is piled with books, most of which are available for a fair price or trade. The place practically begs for study groups. If you want to play around, however, tap into the reserve of board games, including Risk, Scrabble and Monopoly. Packing such a small space with so much furniture creates a somewhat cluttered environment, but it also adds to the relaxed and unpretentious nature of the place.

While mom's not coming by with cookies, My House has the next-best thing. Treats such as fruit-filled cinnamon rolls and empanadas are made by Panaderia Guatemalteca, a Guatemalan Bakery on the Northwest side. My House also has in-house eats. Sandwiches come in unique flavors like garlic grilled cheese ($5) and apple butter and meat ($6), and there's a fresh banana pudding ($2) to finish things off.

Check out the giant white board near the restrooms for the open-mic night schedule (Wednesdays at 7 p.m. and occasional weekend events) or for an open game of Hangman (one play per purchase). The board also lists the types of coffee beans and where they came from; My House prides itself on offering fair trade and organic blends. A medium-size cup costs $2 and there's a range of other beverages, including lattes, teas, cider and hot chocolate.

My House does have free wi-fi, but it doesn't take credit cards; head next door to the Walgreens for an ATM.

Centerstage Reviewer: Kent Green