Just settling into its freshman year, Mercury Cafe is going through a bit of an awkward phase. It's new in town, just trying to fit in with its cool East Village neighbors and feel comfortable in its own (slightly oversized) space. But with a little confidence and a lot of customers, it's sure to become the most popular coffee shop on the block.

Great coffee, a fun and friendly staff, bohemian decor and a practically unlimited seating area make it an obvious pick of a place to spend an entire day in, getting lost in work, conversation or a good book (no need to bring your own...there are several bookshelves spilling over with reading material to buy or browse). Busy bees will benefit from free wifi (just ask a barista for the password). Food- and drink-wise, the place is pretty standard: you've got your tea, coffee and espresso drinks from Intelligentsia Coffee, as well as sandwiches (create your own if you like) and a decent supply of baked goods from Alliance Bakery.

However, like any freshman, Mercury Cafe is still working out the kinks. Most notably, it appears as if there's not enough of anything to fill its enormous space. It needs to pack it with more couches or (hopefully) more people. But once it does and neighbors see how cool this place can be, its awkwardness is sure to fade ...and its popularity will totally skyrocket.

Centerstage Reviewer: Ashley Hamilton