A must for anyone feeling stressed out, anxious or just plain tired, Merz Apothecary knows how to soothe. The store’s leaded glass windows, tin ceilings, parquet floors and solid oak cabinets are beautiful, and it’s filled with the scent of luxury soaps and fresh herbs.

Swiss-born original owner and pharmacist Peter Merz sought to preserve his cultural traditions and serve the neighborhood’s immigrant European population by offering herbal medicines and formulas not common in American drugstores. The store remained family-owned and operated for 85 years until Ralph Merz had no one to take over the business. Enter Abdul Qaiyum, a 26-year-old pharmacist from Pakistan, who heard about the apothecary from his German in-laws. He bought the store in 1972 and continued to expand, following the Merz tradition of natural goods.

Anthony Qaiyum, Abdul’s son and co-owner, says, "We’re the ideal bridge of Lincoln Square's past and future. We’re frequented by Romanians, former Yugoslavians, Russians and a core group of European customers…but we also have the popularity of newer medicines and natural options, so we’re able to reach out to American families as well."

The store carries everything from personal grooming items to homeopathic remedies to natural bath, skin and aromatherapy products. The staff includes international pharmacists who speak a combined seven different languages. They’re knowledgeable, helpful and patient, and can offer gift ideas to fit your budget and needs. You can even shop from the comfort of your own home via its Web site.

Centerstage Reviewer: Genevra Gallo