NOW CLOSED...

Formerly:

I'm so keen on this indie coffee bar, tucked away on a residential section of Sheffield between Belmont and Wellington, I'm tempted to put on a sandwich board and march up and down Belmont to get the word out.

Owners Steve Beckwith and Laura and Gary Hartel want to make Fixx a hot spot for students and neighborhood folks. The location, though less trafficked, is perfect for morning commuters on their way to the Belmont and Wellington L stations, and the owners' laid-back philosophy on closing times is a big coup for late-night studiers. The open, minimalist lounge layout, with exposed brick, ample room at the long bar and loads of comfy black leather couches, plus fun distractions like a Ms. Pac-Man arcade game, a well-stocked jukebox and the biggest draw of all, free wifi, lends a low-key vibe perfect for studying or scoping.

Fixx's drink board is stocked with all the coffee shop favorites, plus some hyper-caffeinated concoctions with names like Smith & Wesson and The Kevorkian, which will surely appeal to those who would mainline their java if they could. A few salads, soups, sandwiches and other light bites are available.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Emilie Zanger