Now that the weather is warming up, I'm even more looking forward to hanging at the Diesel, hoping to get one of the half dozen tables in the front. During the warm weather, they open up the glass storefront -- appropriately, really a glass garage door -- and you are simultaneously inside and outside!\r
\r
As a natural redhead, I burn crisp in about 15 minutes, so I've always sought out shaded patios, and this qualifies in my book. Plus the front seating lets you check out who comes in and out, and so I see all my friends from the neighborhood.\r
\r
The Diesel is a classic coffeehouse, with art on the walls, and everyone there from the old Somerville grayhairs to hipsters to Tufts students cramming in the corners. It's the social anchor of Davis.
Pros: comfy, good coffee, social conscience, wifi
Cons: limited menu, often crowded, pay for wifi
more