photo: courtesy of Bridget Cicenia

An upbeat spot that's as big on portions as it is on taste, Tweet sits next door to Big Chicks, which the boisterous Michelle Fire also owns. Unlike its sister spot, Tweet lacks the paintings of naked ladies on the walls, but it shares the same vibe. A quirky layout tucks tables into semi-private alcoves and bird drawings adorn its menu.

The food emphasizes locally grown, organic ingredients, from cage-free Amish eggs and organic yogurt to a vegan burrito filled with organic black beans, rice and tofu. Even the biscuits and gravy get local with Amish sausage from farms in Michigan and Indiana. Tweet's community-centric conscience doesn't stop at its menu selections, though. On the first and third Tuesday of every month, it hosts an event for local and national gay and lesbian performers.

Tweet goes all out for breakfast and brunch. Before the belly-busting platters arrive, you'll receive small pastries and cups of fruit compote or fresh fruit. The menu balances traditional picks (design-your-own omelets, pancakes and eggs benedict) with playful ones (including aebleskiver—Danish puff pastries served with maple syrup or honey). Served five ways, the popular breakfast burritos delight, and rotating specials like roasted-corn pancakes with avocado, creme fraiche and eggs, keep regulars on their toes.

Lunch options tend to be lighter, though the portions aren't much smaller. Opt for the monster Cobb or Mediterranean salads (particularly enjoyable when you can snag a seat on the small front patio), hummus platter, crab cake sandwich or one of the daily specials. A bonus: When the wait gets long, you can hang out next door at Big Chicks and sip free coffee.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Kate Rockwood