If you do make a purchase, however, you're guaranteed to come out with something truly unique.The impeccably turned out salespeople at first seem intimidating, but they're quite nice (and multilingual!). This particular branch also houses a cafe, offering salads and sandwiches (one veggie option) as well as "psychoactive" teas.

P.C. = French Gap. Basic clothes and basic colors, with the occasional pop of color like chartreuse or raspberry. As in a lot of shops in Berlin--and Mitte, specifically--you'll feel more like you're in a gallery, with the raw wall of denim as sartorial art. Proof of exclusivity will be especially apparent at the register.

Due to its close promixity to the university, A.'s caters mainly to the student budget (around 8,-EUR for a meal) as well as the student schedule, which means no weekend service. During the week, however, the chic cantina really does serve as a center of respite for anyone with--forgive me--a lot on their plate and offers small reductions to that effect. The vegetarian selection is limited: two sandwiches, a salad, and a lasagna-type Armenian dish called soubeurrek filled with feta and parsley. The cucumber-and-beet gazpacho isn't half-bad, and certainly won't leave you complaining at 3,-EUR. Superb teas, too.

My mind has been thoroughly blown by this musical behemoth! Thought I stumped the thing but apparently just looked in the wrong section. While their prices aren't as "amazingly low" as advertised (c'mon, $11 for a USED CD? Perhaps I'll try my hand at vinyl), I'd keep coming back to this for my aural needs, because the staff with whom my friends and I interacted were actually quite helpful and not snobby at all. Instantly smitten, I almost blew a wad on some choice box sets...the only shop from whom I'd consider buying promo merch.

Love the mango lasse smoothie ($6) and vegan wrap ($5.75). A little overpriced, but super laidback. You're in Boulder, after all.

I was cranky from the heat, and weary of all the ham that would always find its way into my meals. A chance left turn onto a side street led me to dinner to this restaurant, whose welcome was more memorable than its menu, although I did have a delicious gazpacho-like soup, ON THE HOUSE. I went twice during that week-long stay in the capital, but I think another visit will soon be in order to see whether or not they're still as accommodating, and if they've become more gastronomically inspired.

It's a classic case of supply and demand--of space, at least, clocking with three (and a half) tables. As there's nothing too spectacular on offer (vegetarian salad, shrimp ravioli, and of course, spring rolls), you surely don't have to trek all the way out here. However, I must say that this is hands down one of the--nay, THE--friendliest Vietnamese eatery I've been to, and I'm not just talking about the proprietors, either. At 3,- to 6,-EUR/portion, you'd probably want to save room for a little of everything, though you might want to pass if you really want to fill yourself up.

For 20P, you can get a simple bagel with cream cheese; its upwards from there for a fancier sandwich. The vegetarian version is nothing super elaborate, but sure fills up the stomach. Drinks range from 12-30P. I didn't have much to do except to while away the morning, so I splurged on a delicious hot chocolate and then an even more delicious mocha. Usually a one-person operation, the service can be "relaxed," but also quite welcoming towards locals, language students, and tourists alike.

Because I'm sure there are better places to get bagels. HOWEVER, I AM a creature of habit, so Bagel Co. (formerly Bagel Station, an offshoot of the chain in Vienna), has since become my go-to place for my favorite breakfast item. The staff are used to visitors and so don't think anything of hungry non-German-speaking bagel fanatics such as myself.

The ingredients always seem super fresh and the one girl that I always saw there was always seems friendly. I can vouch for the Toscana (on a Parmesan-oregano bagel) and Veggie bagels, but they have eight other sandwiches, too. This is what I wish Einstein's could be. Then again, I'm glad there's only one of these shops.

Upon relaxing, we soon discovered that they were plastic, and not leather, but this didn't damper our evening as we laughed off about embarrassing teenage crushes. The espresso's OK, the ambiance even better--the lighting and music are set at the appropriate levels in order for you to enjoy your conversation with your partner(s). Service is also quite efficient...and yes, like about every other place in the neighborhood, BA Cafe offers monthly rotating exhibits, featuring painting and photography.

You'd think you were walking into Colette for frozen goods, but the staff are surprisingly laidback and really, who can resist the temptation of a rose-petal flavored ice cream, if solely out of curiosity? And yes, it does taste like flowers! Take out your 2,50 scoop ("cucurucho") on the sidewalk and enjoy it watching the Glorieta de Quevedo.

Well, it still SORT of is, though there's logic behind the decorative choice: once upon a time, the Folies played host to some legendary chansonniers like Chevalier and Piaf (she's from the hood, and born just up the street). It's another one of those neighborhood places where you can just nurse your drinks and talk...forever; the folks who run it don't seem to mind even when they're brimming with customers. Open at 6 on weekdays and Saturdays, 7 on Sundays.

, but nonetheless retains that cozy, nonpretentious neighborhood coffeeshop feel. If I lived in Bergen, I'd probably frequent this place just for the carrot cake and hot chocolate and if I had kids or a dog, I'm sure they'd feel just as welcome.

Prepare to enter a world of colorful and cheerful design, as your utensils are served in small plastic buckets and assorted Mexican paraphernalia scream at you from every angle. Yes, there are nachos (and very good ones, at that), but if you're looking for burritos/tacos/fajitas or--dog forbid--SOPAPILLAS, you're at the wrong place, because none of this is available here. But (if you're meat-friendly) you can have a whack at their specialty, steak fillet with huitlacoche.

You might convert--and lose your mind--as soon as you step inside, astounded by the sheer selection of titles and assorted memorabilia. Mull over potential purchases (Rutu Modan? Argentine comic history? limited edition Tintin print?) upstairs over a cup of coffee, which can be free upon registration for a loyalty card. Only minor con: the service can sometimes be slow, but at least it's always with a smile.

Light and airy space. Take your time browsing.

I suppose we were there during rush hour (apparently, when isn't in rush hour), though we were left unimpressed. Props for the chips, but maybe a second go will do it...

" You really only came here for the history, for the nostalgia (you love Bill Cosby), before or after a show, because let's face it, you probably don't live in the neighborhood, and there aren't very many things on the menu you can actually eat. The homemade veggie chili IS vegan (large a little over $5), with TVP and you can add cheese (for vegetarians) and onions for a little extra. Breakfast is served until around 11, but, given the shop's reputation, it's mostly crowded any time of the day!

So, it's kind of expensive, too, but it's a nice place to browse, and the salespeople are nice. If you get tired, there's an adjacent cafe with good homemade pastries.

You order your coffee at the bar (2E, if I remember correctly) and then you take it to your little coin and no one bothers you; nothing too special. Perhaps it picks up when the afternoon classes get out, but it's a calm place to psychologically prep myself for said classes. If you're into meeting random people, informal language exchanges take place every Thursday at 8PM.

I might have to agree, but then again, I'm easily impressed by cute shops offering beautiful and one-of-a-kind clothes and accessories with prices to match. I bought an alarm clock because I felt like I couldn't walk away with anything, ha. The salesperson lets you take your time browsing the different collections and running your hands along the very fine threads.

At least, this is what my friend and I tried. Between the two of us, we split about 7 blintzes as well as the aforementioned spreads; although our selections were nothing to write home about, we were soon stuffed. The hot chocolate, hand-ground (?) with love, was on the other hand quite delicious, as was the pineapple financier (it's similar to a madeleine). If I were rating it just on service, I'd give the place five stars; perhaps we caught the place on a slow day, but the lady (proprietor?) was more than welcoming and didn't seem to mind going up and down the narrow spiral staircase to take care of us. I'd return just because of the friendliness and the relaxed atmosphere.

I thought of one, in particular, and wished she could share the moment with me, the two of us reading and enjoying each other's company. Those were the feelings invoked in me during breakfast in this oasis of serenity (not including the parrots, of course!), but given that I was there quite early, in the dead of winter, makes me doubt that the Blumencafé is anything if not popular--it's on the main drag in Prenzlberg, of course, and only a jaunt up from Kastanienallee. The service was very relaxed and uninstrusive, and when I left, the cute girl offered me a flower from the shop next door. Nice touch!

Feeling a little spunky, I opted for four and when I got home, savored two with some nice passion fruit tea. So light and filling at the same time, making for a great afternoon treat. There are obviously other goods to get here (the pain de campagne was recently ranked 3rd in the city, I believe) and perhaps there are better places in town from which to procure the madeleines themselves. Still, it's not a bad stop on your way to/from the Aligre market. I'll definitely be going back again.

"Juice lovers unite!" ought to be the tubularly cheesy yet utterly accurate motto of this miniscule juice bar near the Canal Saint-Martin. Along with a drink (between 3,- to 5,-EUR alone, made from seasonal ingredients), the 7,-EUR formule will get you soup, salad, and ever fresh, ever delicious muffin. (Try apple cinnamon!) And let's not forget the 1,-EUR coffee, pretty much unheard of...everywhere in Western Europe (and certainly not around these boho parts)! Did I mention the pancakes on Saturdays?! Jamba quoi?
Closed on Sundays, unfortunately.

), but perhaps this is the one most convenient for tourists like me. Because I really love the concept of the bagel sandwich, I can really only vouch for their humongous portions (enough for two!), especially the Italian Vegetarian (an overload of both fresh and sun-dried tomatoes and pesto, with mozzarella) on a spinach bagel, but their Mediterranean Plate (hummus, bagel chips, veggies = excellent) also looked appetizing. Amusing posters, to boot.

Since many of the pieces do run on the smaller side, I'm mainly just there for inspiration, and one can be "inspired" for hours! However, I sometimes do find that one-of-a-kind item that fits me well and I must therefore snap up before some Joanna Newsom or Parker Posey fan does. Great sunglasses and other miscellaneous accessories as well.

They have since grown from popularity and opened up a restaurant next door, and the fancier Grill just down the street. I love coming in the take-away shop/café and munching on their very filling empanadas ($1.75) each. My favorites are the spinach and cheese, while meat-eating friends have enjoyed the chicken margarita and spicy beef. You have 30+ types of pizza to choose from, either tomato or olive-oil based, all very creative. Try the Humita (corn, onion, bechamel), Belgrano (blue cheese, hearts of palm), or if you're feeling literary, the Borges (spinach, tomato, bechamel)! Their gelato is also very wonderful, with three types of dulce de leche, and the fruit mixes are A-mazing! I love this place so much I could live off of just the bread and chimichurri spread they serve dine-in patrons. To top it all off, the service is quite friendly and enthusiastic, happy to answer any questions you may have.

Sometimes you find something you fall in love with and want to take home with you. And sometimes you just want to check out the people that frequent the place. What's cool is that you can bring your clothes in for cash or trade. That's not guaranteed, however, as the staff are quite picky. Don't sweat it, though; they are in the fash biz, after all!

Owners are very friendly and serve Ethiopian coffee for either walk-in or drive-thru customers. Yes! This is one of the few non-Starbucks I know with a driver-thru. After all, the cafe has been converted from a garage, which adds to its charm. Outdoor seating popular on sunny weekend afternoons. The only negative is that the cafe is not open too late (til 6 on weekdays, I believe).

Really, it was a dream: two spaces of all manner of material concerning architecture, fashion, film, graphics, photography, prints, typography...anything artistically-oriented, it's probably here, or they can get it for you. Stencil art in Argentina? Check. Iconic 50-70s buildings in Berlin? Of course. It's hard to walk away without a purchase.

Wander not even a block down to this cafe, where you can hook up for the mere price of a coffee and enjoy Michal Gabriel's bronze horses across the street. For those wanting a snack, I heartily recommend the croissants, always excellent whether morning, noon, or night.

Since I've only partaken in their coffee drinks, I can only vouch for those, my favorite being the "Dark Toffee" which is a mocha with toffee syrup and dark chocolate powder by Ghirardelli. The "Florentine," which is half coffee, half hot chocolate isn't too bad, either. Soy milk can be yours for a little extra.

Very, very chulled out atmosphere which is great for very fearful, very shy people like me. Either hang out upstairs by the bar and watch dogs go by or for more seclusion, downstairs, and mack on your partner. I mean...I heard Wednesdays are big for DJed flamenco, but I've yet to check it out.

So far my favorite coffeeshop in which to relax during weekday afternoons, with a book or with friends or just staring off into space listening to music that I always seem to enjoy, though I might not necessarily know who is playing. On the weekends, it can be sometimes tough to find a spot because it's a rather "well-known secret." Really good but kind of expensive (2EUR) tea.

Nothing special, really, which is why this review is short.

Nice ambience and chill music; there seemed to be djs spinning electronica every time I went, but I don't know if that's a regular thing. Next time, I think I'll take a friend so we can get some of the delicious crepes.

The employees seem friendly--well, polite--enough. Good sound, good vibes. Being in a super-cool neighborhood, though, kinda scares me from going in the daytime.

The service wasn't bad and you're able to linger over your 2,3-EUR crème (cheapish, I'm guessing, for the 'hood) for as long as you want (1,-EUR at the bar). Right near the Mouffetard market, so if you get tired of shopping, or even smelling, here's a nice place to relax your wandering feet (nose). I'll have to come back for brunch.

You can imagine the greatest writers of the 20s, 30s in a feisty tertulia (debate/discussion), or perhaps overhear their contemporaries. On some afternoons, a good place to get lost in a book, hopefully with one of their delicious ice cream concoctions. I prefer the dulce de leche shake.

" Vavin is just the place, as you admire the good-looking students with their perfectly disheveled manes make their way to and from classes, discussing the latest topics at the Lucernaire movie theater, lining up at the sandwich shop across the way. For the price, the coffee isn't super stellar, but you're there more for the atmosphere, right? Thanks goodness the servers are more than nice, which is pretty rare in this neck of the woods.

Camper, shoes made for walking. I'm not super into brand loyalty, but this is one company I always follow and try to save up for every season. Love it so much that I have three 'Spiral' model shoes...super comfy! Even better during sales.

Caramella is the new kid on the block, and a great stop-off, if after Rose Bakery across the street, you're craving something even sweeter. Open everyday til 10, so when you're feeling super adventurous, you're free to try the 20 different flavors like tarte tatin (yes, that one), gianduja (hazelnut-like chocolate), mojito, and even peanut butter and jelly! Don't worry if you've made incongruous selections, though; Giovanni will help you obtain the ultimate gelato experience.

Yes, the tapas are quite tasty, but unfortunately not much in the way for vegans.

However, it's one of the only stores--well, that I know of--that SPECIALIZES in electronica pop, indie rock, etc., and you can't deny that the staff is knowledgeable. Also a section dedicated to peninsular artists, as can be found on labels like Jabalina, Elefant, and Acuarela. Some vinyl, and stations for listening; they also tickets to select shows (check their notice board). Expect to roughly 17,-EUR for one CD.

This ain't no Watercourse! If you can get by on appetizers, Zorba's offers superb hummus and falafel dishes. I go for the Kolokithia (zucchini slices with tzatziki) and if I'm feeling adventurous, I get the Macaronada as well (Greek-style macaroni), but usually I just stick to the appetizers. Zorba's serves Mexican as well; if that's what you're hankering after, leave it for another joiint. This is Colorado, after all.

Although we made the staff wait for the rest of our huge party to trickle in, without reservations, on a Saturday night, service was still with a smile. That said, there's not much on the menu for vegetarians (let alone vegans), and although the two cheese (cantal and I forget what other cheese) sandwich was quite filling, I could've bought it elsewhere for much less or made it myself. There's also an appetizing-looking "Basque-style" soup and the very hearty Boyarde.

In warmer times, they have a little sidewalk terrace going on to watch the world speed by you or watch sweaty joggers across the street.

So be it. I admit, I'm far too much of a chocolate fan to avoid the place, but I prefer the rolls to the much-touted churros. It's the experience that counts, for sure.

' Surely, I can get bagels at Best or City Bagels, but I like hanging out with my dear cousins a little bit more because they're very nice, and always have the time to have a pleasant chat. 6,-EUR bagel lunch specials will have me coming back for more, along with the carrot cake, the "love cake," the milkshake...I could go on. Note: it's easy to pass by the storefront, so if you can't find it the first time, try again; it's across the street from the blaring orange of Nathan Coffee. You'll be richly rewarded, though go after noon if you don't want to be suffocated by the crowd.

Although the pricing is not super friendly to the student budget, I made it a point to stop by at least once a week to take in if not this very spicy concoction, then the equally tasty kung pao tofu with peanuts or eggplant in garlic sauce. Such is my love for this place! The staff are incredibly warm and welcoming, and didn't mind me ordering practically the same meal each time I visited for lunch.

), but it's owned by the Watercourse folks (and located in the old space), so it should be ok, right? The preliminary reviews were pretty much on the dot; City is really more of a bar that happens to serve coffee (and veggie pizzas), a stylish nook that's kind of like a Cheers for the indie/creative community. Having said that, I was kind of intimidated about dining here, but the servers are in that friendly but unobtrusive Mathlete/A.V. club fashion, and the ambiance on one Saturday afternoon rather low-key. Perhaps I'll give it a second (or third) round.

EDIT: I went here four times in one week. Go for the #3 pizza with seitan!

) painted on the walls makes you feel like spring even in the midst of winter. The lunch special is reasonable (about 9,-EUR), and is a great starting (or ending) point for the Rastro. Depending on the night, you can also check out some live jazz or tablaos (flamenco) on Thursdays.

I'll always have a soft spot for Common Grounds, the coffeeshop of my adolescence, back when the immediate area was yet to be baptized "Highland Square," and deemed the Park Slope of Denver, back when nobody brought their Macbooks anywhere! And as with similarly low-paying jobs, there seems to be a constant turnover of baristas, and one can note a significant change in attitude. Oh, right, I was supposed to review the positive aspects of the coffeeshop, right? They've still got the comfortable chairs and ample board games for those who arrive technically challenged. I'm sure the cakes taste just as good, too, but last time I was there, I noticed that the was no IBC Rootbeer in stock.

While the offerings are nothing to write home about, I appreciate its high ceilings, music selection (I usually don't know who it is but I can always tune it out), and big front room windows. I can easily while away a few hours here reading or writing. The baristas are swell...as well.

This is the one of my adolescence, so I have very fond memories of it. Local art, local musicians--shoo, even the Hills (Clinton) stopped by many moons ago. I went by recently and while they still have the same cozy seats and the same tasty drinks, it had a very different vibe, lots of upper middle-class folks at their laptops. Well, the change is in both me and the neighborhood, so I shouldn't complain, and Common Grounds has seen a lot over the years.

Taken, but not surprised, precisely because of the flow of traffic. A narrow little shop with mostly the same selection as the two other branches, but this one has by far the nicest salespeople.

I love it so much that I'm bound to incorrectly use punctuation marks?!. A very sober color palette with the occasional burst of yellow, royal blue, or coral, with matching classic designs of stripes, or polka dots. The concept is for mothers and daughters in step with style, that way the clothes can be shared, or at least, last you through the ages. So, the prices aren't that friendly, but the fabrics are. And well, the saleswomen too. By the by, there's also a shop more in the center, on Fuencarral, but I prefer this one, as it seems more laidback, but maybe it's also because I'm in prim-and-proper town. Now I feel like carrying a chihuahua in my purse.

A very upmarket, beautiful shoe shop with beautiful shoes sold by beautiful people, I hate to go in, lest I make a compulsive purchase. Guess it's a good thing that I'm a disaster on heels.

My spirits were nevertheless lifted just by one glance at Cosmen & Keiless' window display of succulent pastries; little did I know that this was the rebirth of the H&S firm. To tell you the truth, I have yet to try their bread, but I can definitely vouch for the cheesecake brownies--yes, that's right--a dangerously sweet concoction that took me one day to fully comprehend and savor. C&K's creations will definitely give Entremigas a run for its money.

Surely, Del Mundo would be an integral part of my Saturday morning if I lived in Basel. I was lucky enough to partake in their Saturday brunches (check the website for future dates) and gorge on top-notch croissants, baked to flaky perfection that would give any French cousin a run for its money. I'm not normally a cereal fan, but I even tried the müesli, because I was THAT entranced. In the event that I do relocate to Basel, I would strive to make friends ASAP so that we can have weekly commiserations here.

You could spend a whole day here, with a hot chocolate in the morning, a tostada and some spring rolls for lunch, and something else from their delightful menu later in the evening. They also have a take-away bar, if you're not in the mood to stay, or rather, you can't. Another somewhat overpriced place, but you're there for the ambiance, anyway.

Alas, we were a little too late, but this did not deter us from getting a treat. Everything looked utterly delectable, but we finally decided on a huge strawberry-filled macaron, which burst with even more flavor after each bite. I will be a return customer, that's for sure!

This location is the main branch, housing five public floors in the including the world-reknowned Western History & Genealogy collection. This Michael Graves-designed building offers a multitude of nooks and crannies in which to peruse any literature of your choice (5th floor is my favorite on which to get serious studying/reflection done, as it is the least populated). The library also offers free internet, though there is usually a queue. Sometimes, special exhibits are shown on the 7th floor, often worth checking out. In the basement, they host the (free) film series. If you get thirsty, there's a(n) overpriced cafe just to the left of the Broadway entrance.

Everything from straight-up guides, to memoirs, to maps, most in English AND Spanish, and oh, if you're into hiking, climbing, or pretty much that involves mountains, check out Desnivel's own imprint or ask at the desk about organized trips.

The "eplemost," apple juice with cinnamon and whipped cream, is most exquisite, and made me want to tear off my reindeer-patterned sweater when I imbibed it in all its glory. During the summer, I like to go sit outside to enjoy excellent iced coffee, and watch other customers pour in.

The diminutive shop on the lovely Plaza Citlaltépetl provides a relaxed ambiance in which you can peruse design magazines, check out street duds or have a listen to any available album at one of four retro-fitted listening stations. From time to time, Discoteca also hosts intimate concerts with local bands; check online or stop by for more info.

That said, Diurno is a mellow place to chill out with friends or peruse movies, with equally mellow spatial design for good vibes. It's actually quite popular, so I like to go on weekday mornings/afternoons when most of the regulars are off at work or whathaveyou.

It's on Fuencarral, so it's not that big of a secret. I'd probably still get a thing or two, though.

This is probably true, but if you're used to the Mission or any other place where Mexican eateries abound, then you might be slightly disappointed. In any case, those hankering after something homey but thankfully, un-Chipotle-y, can find respite at this Mitte stop, where you can use a five-step process to customize your order or get one of their readymade "Express" choices, two of which are vegan. I opted for the deluxe "Dolores Vegan," with the novelty (to me) of lime tofu mixed with veggies, beans, rice, and guac. At under 6,-EUR, pretty filling stuff, though I enjoyed mine in the brisk winter air, as lunchtime was expectedy crowded.

There's no sign and sometimes, even if you're usually good with directions like I am, you can get confused. After a few tries, I finally found the entrance, feeling foolish because I'd bypassed the stairways leading to it (eastern and western ends of the Plaza, on Gran Via) so many times. In any case, the slightly disheveled store is a must for (most of) your Asian goods: seaweed, noodles (instant and not), spices, sauces, dips, dumplings. You name it, and they probably have it here, including a wide range of Chinese-language books and magazines. Five stars for me because there are even Philippine dried mangoes so, of course, I'm returning.

My favorite part is not the actual sandwich, but the name, paying tribute to the area, with monikers like the Colfax Club, the Marion, the Ogden. It's been a while since I've visited, so I think a trip is in order.

El Azul is easily a contender, with helpful staff and hands down the best, most scrumptious slice of carrot cake I've ever had in my entire life. (A slice can be shared by two people.) Apparently quite intimate on weekday nights, we'll have to see what the vibes are like for breakfast and lunch (two menus: vegetarian and not). It doesn't hurt that the place is tastefully appointed either, with hazy sky blue and creamy tones and comfortable furnishings.

Such a favorite with the artsy/literary folk, sometimes you can't get past the cafe to the books, but it's worth jostling the crowd for a look at the carefully-selected titles. Check out the free readings and exhibits (mostly photography and painting), if you're into that, too. Otherwise, stop by just to try their AMAZING hot chocolate (three different kinds at last visit)--at 2,50,-EUR, it's so much better than what you get at San Ginés.

Add five or six years to Harriet the Spy, Claudia Kishi, or Hermione Granger, and they could all work at the Secret Garden, which actually neither as exclusive as the former nor as pleasant as the latter. The antithesis to "classy," "chic" joints in Salamanca and Chueca, this cafe's SO alternative, that you want to look for an alternative, especially because the best coffeeshops, in my opinion, are open for fauxllectual discussions with friends before FIVE in the evening. Then again, you don't want to go that Moby Dick haunt, right? You trudge back in, gloss over the extensive beverage menu, and make your drink last, chortling at the junior-high decor, until the next party arrives.

For about 7,-EUR you can get a filling brunch (bread, hot and cold drinks, and a choice from four entrees). Three stars because I want to try it again.

El peque is the little sister of the SCOOTER and BAZAAR shops, stocking many Frenchy chic labels at significantly discounted prices. Sometimes the merchandise destined for the regular shops arrives late, and so, is sold directly in El peque. The stock tends to rotate every few weeks, so off-the-chart fashion fiends tend to check more than often. I try to come by every once in a while, and always, ALWAYS come away with something, like a great Vanessa Bruno belt or checkered Isabel Marant Etoile button-up top. Virginia, the salesgirl, is helpful but non-intrusive. As always: try before you buy, because there are no returns, but why would that happen, anyway?

Sitting outside on a fine summer day admiring the Kunsthof makes you forget that your pan con tomate is well, not exactly up to standard. Yeah, you realize you're in Germany! At least, they give you a basketful that's enough for, say, 3-4 people. Props to the relaxed staff.

Of course, this won't matter much to true bibliophiles wishing to while away their summer hours. Cafe seating is plentiful and the shiva lassies are excellent.

Being a vegetarian, I have no desire to try the meaty selections, but others have attested to their scrumptious factor. Forget Chipotle/Qdoba/etc, this is the place to be, especially if you just want to bathe in their delicious green chili. Be forewarned: as this place is SUPER popular, there might be queue for a table (or the counter), but the wait will be WELL WORTH it.