They are experts at the cappuccino. Order one, and they'll have it on the table within a couple of minutes: hot, frothy, and decoratively doused with cocoa to create a veritable artistic masterpiece. You won't need sugar. As you drink this down, the cocoa runs down the inside of the cup in streaks. Can you resist the urge to forgo any sense of decorum, and lick the inner rim like a child? Heaven on earth for $3.15 per cup.

As you pass by this North End coffee shop, the first thing you notice are the laptops on all of the tables by the window. No wonder, the cafe offers free wifi. Beautiful unique artwork on the walls by featured local artists make this a funky spot to get your java fix. A true neighborhood gem and hang out with a fireplace, huge couches and chairs, and a friendly, laid back vibe.

The North End is packed with delicious, comfortable restaurants, and Piccolo Venezia is no exception. On the main Hanover drag, it presents many of the staple Italian dishes, alongside wine and cocktails. Traditonal Italian fare, served in a friendly and warm atmosphere. The lighting and decor is charming and cozy, with fixtures that could have lit candles in them, and bundles of garlic hanging near pictures of saints in the corners. The mussels are some of the best to be had in the area (try them white, with oil and garlic, as opposed to with marinara), and the appetizer sampler plate is delicious, with 5 or 6 to try, with shrimp, mozzarella sticks, cheesy bread, calamari, and others. The service isn't overbearing, and even sassy and authentic at times. The water glasses are kept full, the post-dinner coffee drinks have copious foam, and there are plenty of large groups carrying on and eating delicious food all around you.

Gallery-cafe with an unbelievably hip atmosphere. I was intrigued by the filmy red curtains in the window and the warm glow inside. The owner saw my curiosity, and came outside to greet me. Apparently the curtains are only there for events (loved it) but nonetheless as soon as I stepped inside, I knew that I had found something unique. Low cushioned benches were pushed up against the walls, against each other and circling coffee tables. The place gave the impression of an exotic den. Smooth music pulsed, the lighting was low, and contemporary artwork covered the walls. Amazing, and even better the WiFi is free.

Not so great during the day and even worse for, but that's not what makes this place work so well. The secret? Their 4am closing time. This is the perfect place to go after most of the bars have shut down, or when you can't sleep. Old staple for the woozy alcohol stomach at 3 am. Get some food to settle your stomach and of course a double espresso for the drive home. If you want romantic coffee and dessert, go down the street.

Cafe Graffiti closed and might be reopening in the old Martignetti space.

This is not a fancy place, and as the name suggests, is all about getting together with your buddies and cheering on your soccer team, and not so much the coffee and pastry. Futbol on the big TVs, sit back and relax with your coffee while catching the game. You might end up here when the other bakeries are closed, and the desserts aren't bad. Cash only.

Polcari's has so many herbs, oils and spices. If you want to prepare authentic Italian food at home, this is the place to get your ingredients. You won't find this stuff at the supermarket chains, and a lot of it can be bought out of bins or is packaged at the store. Old style shop where they will soon know your name. Just go for the experience of the visit, for that real 'North End' feeling, complete with creaky, wooden floors. This place changed hands some time ago, but from what I hear it went to a former employee who maintains the original feel and charm.

Do not miss the lemon slush in the summer here, it's not too sweet and very refreshing. You'll see the slush cooler, disguised as the 55 gallon drum that it was made from, out in front of the door. You scoop it yourself and then pay.