Manil Books (CLOSED)

The first disclaimer about this place is that it’s not necessarily the place to go to for English-language books. While they do have a small collection of classics and a handful of Paris Reviews, the real charm of Manil Books for bibliophiles is the piles of well-organized books and the round reading table in the center, inviting you to sit down and read. With an eclectic collection of books from independent publishers, readers can find wellknown graphic novels translated into Korean along with literature on “how to quit your job” or “how to drink beer.” To the right of the entrance, there’s even a small bulletin showing upcoming indie concerts and a schedule of which foreign films are showing. There’s a box of books that customers are allowed to read within the store and it’s not uncommon to see someone at the center table with a book, unpressured to hurry up.