The Nook Bookstore & Mocktail Lounge has opened at 211 N 9th St. in Manitowoc, Wis. WFRV reported that the new venture, owned by Jessica Nicholson and Lily Schuette, "brings customers together to enjoy spiritless mocktails alongside a diverse selection of books in a comfortable space with an ambiance the owners say will have you lounging for hours."
Nicholson, a local real estate agent, said she was excited about introducing a hangover-free concept to Manitowoc, and has plans to host events aimed at fostering community connections.
Schuette added that she was enthusiastic about creating a space where people can savor a delicious mocktail or immerse themselves in a good book. The Nook's menu features coffee, tea, and specialty mocktails, including a Galaxy Gin Fizz, Pink Lady Lemonade, Old Fashioned Essence, and Smokey the Bear. Small bites, including parfaits, avocado toast, turnovers, and bagels with cream cheese, are also available.
After the Nook's grand opening on December 14, Nicholson and Schuette posted on Facebook: "All we have to say is... WOW! Never in a million years did we expect to walk outside and see a line wrapped around the building. What an honor it was to serve every single one of you who came to our grand opening.
"We have prepped for months, and we hope every customer had an amazing experience! Seeing our space filled with people enjoying our creations is one of the best feelings ever! We will be restocking TONS of books, retail, and blind dates with a book (those sold out within the first half hour)! If you have any feedback, we would love to hear it. Shoot us a message and let us know what we can do to keep you all coming back.
"A HUGE shoutout to our team today--this was their first real day and they were incredible. With hardly any training they jumped right in and got the hang of things so quick. The perfect team, hands down!"