Caffe Italia

A small, but hip and cozy Little Italy hangout, "frescoed" walls and rustic touches complement this cafe's small, contemporary interior. Street-side tables and a cool back patio make for prime outdoor seating. The coffee gets mixed reviews, but the salads are big, the desserts are primo, and the Sunday Belgian waffle bar is a treat.

From the kitchen, open Monday through Saturday until 3 p.m., choose from a classic selection -- turkey breast, pesto and roasted red peppers; tuna and tzaziki sauce; cheeses and pesto; and chicken breast with artichoke hearts -- of cafe sandwiches, served on fresh-baked Italian bread, and salads, including garden, Caesar, fruit or antipasto. And at night or for an after dinner kicker, stroll in and choose your creamy poison. A combo of espresso bean and Mocha Rum Crunch gelato has never failed to please.