The free wi-fi is the cherry on top of this adorable brick-walled cafe in the heart of Humboldt Park. Alarmingly-fast high-speed internet makes it easy to wile away entire afternoons perusing online gossip columns at the sun-splashed tables.

Attached to a spiffy mini-mart, this quiet haven comes outfitted with higher-than-average tables, the perfect settling ground for laptops. But do leave a corner for a drink: a sugary vanilla latte, piping hot cup of coffee or the house favorite, tasty Italian soda.

The clean kitchen is small but manages to whip up a handful of crunchy paninis (try the basil chicken), breakfast sandwiches and simple pizzas. The staff is a happy lot and will gladly create anything you can think of, as long as they have the ingredients in house. We like to throw down a big bowl of vanilla ice cream with fresh strawberries and whipped cream when a sinking spell hits, but homemade pie also pinch-hits during a sweet fit. We're just waiting to try more obscure pies like coconut cream and pumpkin chiffon.

Don't be surprised if you're the only person in the joint, as not many folks have discovered this hideaway yet. Rest easy; your bawdy online favorites are safe with us.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Misty Tosh