Chicago Comics

3244 N. Clark St., Lake View

A comics cathedral where underground legends mix with the caped and cosmic

Challengers Comics + Conversation

1845 N. Western Ave., Bucktown

A sleek readers’ clubhouse rife with graphic novels, good vibes, and geek diplomacy
Origin story
In 1991, Eric Kirsammer loaned money to an acquaintance who vanished, leaving him with a business instead of repayment. “Overnight I owned a comic store.”
When Patrick Brower (pictured) and W. Dal Bush opened Challengers in 2008, they’d spent decades working comic counters. They aimed to create the place they’d wished existed — one for readers, not speculators.
The vibe
A tin ceiling, creaky wood floors, and exposed brick make this feel like an Old World gallery — if that gallery happened to stock manga, mutants, and mature titles. Uncluttered, open, modern. “An early Yelp review downgraded us for not having the usual ‘comic store funk,’ ” says Brower.
What you’ll find
The store’s secret superpower is balance. Marvel and DC heavyweights sit alongside local indies and small-press rarities. Golden and Silver Age gems are tucked behind the counter.
Beside superhero standards, spot fantasy and sci-fi favorites like Kaijumax and Do a Powerbomb! and sections bursting with Chicago-made and all-ages comics.
Celebrated clientele
Legendary artist Alex Ross is a regular. Once, a starstruck employee bolted in awe when Ross walked in. Four weddings have taken place here (officiated by Brower), and a handful of pro wrestlers on tour have stopped by postmatch.
If the shop were a character
“We’re not flashy and kind of low key, so maybe David Boring or Uatu the Watcher because he’s bald,” says Kirsammer. “Spider-Man, because Spidey treats everyone equally and with respect,” says Brower.