James Lileks
Columnist
Food & CultureLileks, a Minneapolis resident since 1976: "I've never repeated myself once. I don't like to say I write a 'humor' column, since that's subjective. What might be amusing to me might leave you poker-faced. Let's just say my columns are not intended to be taken seriously." He also writes "Streetscape" pieces, which detail the delights and errors, past and present, of the Twin Cities urban environment. He's the author of four novels, four pop-culture "humor" books on vintage subjects and two collections of columns. "People who like my stuff will probably like lileks.com, and those who don't are probably grateful for the heads-up, and will avoid it," Lileks says.
Latest from James Lileks
Uptown movie theaters were once about facades, ceilings. Now they are about luxury chairs, cocktails
Minneapolis’ Lagoon Cinema is going for a face-lift to include a full-service bar, recliner seating and updated sound system.
April 12, 2025
People said these Minneapolis buildings weren’t worth saving — but they were wrong
The city would be more interesting if these old buildings had survived.
April 5, 2025
It’s the worst roadway in Twin Cities. And it’s at MSP Airport.
The pickup area on the lower level is almost always gridlocked, and nothing can be done about it for now.
March 29, 2025
Minneapolis’ skyline is spectacular. But which view is best?
Design, density, variety and height play a role in making its views more lovely from one direction than the others.
March 28, 2025
Here’s what makes an Irish pub an Irish pub — even in Minnesota
You can tell from the outside, if you know the signs. And we don’t mean the one that says “Guinness.”
March 15, 2025
City Center today is downtown Minneapolis’ biggest mistake. But remember the block’s good old days?
It once featured architecturally diverse buildings, distinguished stores and grand theaters and hotels.
March 1, 2025
Minnesota needs more whimsy. Bring back the Happy Chefs and the Big Boys.
Minnesota cities would be more interesting if there were an abundance of smiling plastic statues trying to sell us hamburgers or car washes.
February 22, 2025
The names Minneapolis lost when the streets were renamed for presidents
Here’s the connection between our roads and the men for whom they’re named and why we we ended up with so many.
February 15, 2025
10 reasons we must embrace the Northwestern Life Insurance building in Minneapolis
The building has a Roman temple touch and is the brainchild of renowned architect Minoru Yamasaki.
February 8, 2025
Why do Twin Cities suburban car showrooms look like enormous meat lockers?
Dealerships used to have style, but that was when cars had cranks and running boards, or fins and shiny chrome.
January 29, 2025
Those faces carved in Minneapolis City Hall are absolutely grotesque
Meet the guy who’s been sticking out his tongue at government officials since the 19th century.
January 24, 2025
The elevator doors at these eight Minneapolis skyscrapers are works of art
Modernization of buildings has led to stripped-down looks and riders just want elevators to be functional.
January 10, 2025
