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Local Expert: Maria Olia

I am a freelance writer and the author of “The Little Black Book of Boston” (Peter Pauper Press).   I fell in love with Boston when I was a kid, came to the city for college, and never left!  

Travel is my passion; and I have written dozens...

 

Latest posts from our Boston expert:

May 16, 2008
Insider's List

Five Coffee Houses For Serious Coffee Drinkers

Whether you prefer drip,  latte or espresso; there are tons of chain coffee shops in Boston where you can get your daily fix. What follow is a list of Boston coffee houses with a little more-  coffee prepared with care and  an interesting atmosphere.

1
Cafe Vanille

Located on Beacon Hill, Café Vanille is a great place to recaffeinate after a day of sightseeing downtown. The best coffee at Café Vanille is their regular drip- no matter the time of day, it is always fresh and steaming hot . Café Vanille croissants are really among the best in Boston- perfectly small just like in Europe. The almond croissant is delectable!

2
L'Aroma

I read that at L’Aroma they can make a heart in the foam of your latte. So, in the interest of journalistic truth I just had to see for myself. I ordered a triple and the heart was perfect- the latte itself was wonderful too. L’Aroma is on the upper part of Newbury Street, close to the Public Garden; its outdoor seating area is a great people -watching spot.

3
Caffe Vittoria

Established in the 1920’s , this is the first Italian café in Boston and it still oozes tons of authentic old-world charm. Espresso or cappuccino? You are in the North End. You can’t go wrong with either choice here!

4
Uptown Espresso

In the true spirit of independent coffee shops, Uptown Espresso has a friendly staff and a cozy atmosphere- the walls even feature the work of neighborhood artists. The mochas and lattes are especially well-made. There is a sunny conservatory space in the back and free Wi-Fi throughout the cafe that encourages lingering.

5
Cafe Algiers

A long-time Cambridge hang-out, Café Algiers pretty much defines bohemian coffeehouse. Order the (very strong) Arabic coffee and you will get your own pot. The Mint Moroccan coffee is the Café Algiers specialty- long before specialty coffee drinks were all the rage everywhere else. The second floor is the place to go if you want to wile away the afternoon with good friends- or a good book.

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