Common Grounds

Stop by this cozy and warm coffee shop near 32nd and Lowell for a great dose of the warm fuzzies--complete with wireless access! The staff there are always outgoing, fast and pleasant and the menu is varied. I don't even drink coffee, but their chai and cider are out of this world. They have books, comfy chairs, quiet (if you want it) or busy spots to watch the world go by. They even have a small meeting room and a book club. A wonderful alternative to the chains! They also have a downtown location. more

This Common Grounds location in Highlands (see downtown location) is truly a neighborhood hotspot. From the crying baby in the stroller to the students studying intently (or at least pretending to) on the free WiFi, the atmosphere here is comfortable and truly local. Westword called it "the quintessential neighborhood coffee nest" Here's what Yahoo Travel had to say: "Sporting an assortment of bagels, pastries, deli style sandwiches espressos, lattes and the like, this little neighborhood coffeehouse is an integral part of a thriving area. It is one of the few places that manages to feel hip without consciously trying. Come to chat, relax with the morning paper, view artwork, sip java, and listen to musicians. Whatever your interests, this place will occupy all of your senses. Hillary Clinton thought this a worthy place to visit in 1996." This place is a central fixture in the thriving Highlands neighborhood. There is plenty of seating, a great selection of books on the shelf lined walls, and a very comfortable feel overall. Perks: Neighborhood/local feel, lots of seating, free WiFi, excellent coffee, great people-watching. more

Where else will you find such a diverse mix of people: college students, book clubs, activist groups, and families. The kids can play with the assortment of games, while the parents can enjoy any of their fine coffee. This is truly a meeting place for the neighborhood, where you'll find live guitar on many nights. more