"We're all in this together," says owner Kim Garza, which is why she decided to design a space where sharing is encouraged through community-style seating and themed dinners every other month. During the early a.m. hours, students and locals both young and old stop by for a perfect cup of Metropolis coffee (an organic Chicago roaster) and for Kim's specialty, made-from-scratch scones. Fresh homemade muffins will also please the pastry-lover. Feel free to grab a chair at one of the two large, communal tables (one in the window, the other in the middle of the room) or, if you want a moment alone, grab a stool at the small bar area.

For lunch, Kim serves up hot soups (usually one meat and one veggie option) and sandwiches. For special prix-fixe dinners, daytime tables and chairs are shuffled out and replaced with a table for 20. Past themes include French fare, Italian eats and a tribute to Julia Child. Reservations are required.

Centerstage Reviewer: Shelly Burton