Coffee shops seem to gather more in certain neighborhoods than others - in Lincoln Park, Andersonville and Wicker Park you'll find good cup of java after good cup. Alas, Rogers Park never really saw the coffee house boom. Enter Royal Coffee to save the day. Royal Coffee is everything this neighborhood needed in a coffee shop - cute, locally-owned and not overpriced in the least.

The coffee here is from Ethiopia - it's good and strong without being burnt. The coffee is a single origin (meaning it's not blended) and it's grown at a 5,000-foot elevation. It is richly roasted specifically for Royal's in-store use and also for customers to take home by the pound. They do all the other typical coffee house drinks as well (cappuccinos and the like) ranging in price from $2 to $4.

A wonderful and welcomed addition to the coffee menu is a substantial food menu. Omelets (about $6), sandwiches (about $6), salads ($4-$7) and desserts are available for your noshing pleasure.

Royal Coffee seats about 50 inside and adds 62 seats on its outdoor patio during nice weather. The crowd here is as eclectic as the neighborhood - students, families and retirees.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Christy Bonstell