MONTE VISTA. Warm atmosphere abounds at this coffeehouse, where you can relax on the patio with friends from work or stake out one of Candlelight's comfy couches. Thanks to a reasonably priced but thorough selection of coffees and a range of tasty desserts (including Italian cream cake), the neighborhood hangout is a stylish after-dinner choice. Sandwiches, beer, and wine are also available.#13;#10;#13;#10;

OLMOS PARK. This upscale cousin of the Jim's Restaurant chain brews premium coffees and offers a reasonable selection of beers and wines. If you need a little something to nibble on with your cup of gourmet java, baked goods ably satisfy your sweet tooth. Folks a bit resistant to change can also rest easy: old favorites from Jim's other locations are still here.

DOWNTOWN. The name of this coffee shop doesn't even hint at one of its main attractions ­ pastries from Sip's cousin, Restaurant Le Rêve. A rich cherry-almond torte or a slice of double-iced lemon pound cake are indulgent accompaniments to your coffee drink. And while you treat yourself to a macchiato and a slice of fudge, it's likely that people on the street will gaze enviously through the large storefront windows ­ try not to gloat. If you come for lunch, try a panini or the lobster salad sandwich.