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
Culture
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
Lifestyle
6 ideas to get Minnesotans to want to go to downtown Minneapolis
Downtown Minneapolis may not see big changes in 2025 but it will be different by 2035, if imaginations take over.
January 3, 2025
Culture
Ranking Christmas trees in downtown Minneapolis from scrawny to spectacular
The artificial holiday trees come in different sizes and with an assortment of decorations.
December 17, 2024
Food & Culture
Can Minneapolis become the ‘most beautiful Christmas city in America’ again?
Holidazzle returns downtown this year after a hiatus, but will it bring back the tidings of comfort and joy of the long past years?
December 12, 2024
Culture
Will there be a return of MABA: Make Architecture Beautiful Again?
Many modern government buildings with contemporary designs have come under criticism for being dull and drab.
December 6, 2024
Culture
Old lobby mailboxes reflect beauty of classic Minneapolis skyscrapers
The sturdy metal boxes were objects of beauty and functionality as a mail delivery system in tall buildings.
November 14, 2024
Culture
Minneapolis hotel lobbies offer grandeur, gilt and a vibe-y jumble
Downtown hotel lobbies offer a glimpse into the past as well as a view of humanity at a crossroads.
November 7, 2024
Culture
Northstar Cafeteria is back in downtown Minneapolis, and more upscale for a new generation
Its rebirth brings back memories of the heydays of cafeteria dining, 10-cent asparagus toasts at Miller’s and Forum’s lavish ad campaigns.
October 31, 2024
Culture
Will there be a return of MABA: Make Architecture Beautiful Again?
Many modern government buildings with contemporary designs have come under criticism for being dull and drab.
December 6, 2024
Culture
Old lobby mailboxes reflect beauty of classic Minneapolis skyscrapers
The sturdy metal boxes were objects of beauty and functionality as a mail delivery system in tall buildings.
November 14, 2024
Culture
Minneapolis hotel lobbies offer grandeur, gilt and a vibe-y jumble
Downtown hotel lobbies offer a glimpse into the past as well as a view of humanity at a crossroads.
November 7, 2024
Culture
Northstar Cafeteria is back in downtown Minneapolis, and more upscale for a new generation
Its rebirth brings back memories of the heydays of cafeteria dining, 10-cent asparagus toasts at Miller’s and Forum’s lavish ad campaigns.
October 31, 2024