Ledger

1117 Broadway Avenue

Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

As a student in the city it is sometimes easy to feel intimidated downtown -- classy museums, big banks, expensive lofts and people in suits. However, in the heart of the city there’s One Heart Café.

Located next to the School of the Arts, One Heart Café is an oasis for students, art and the soul. Relatively new, the One Heart Café opened six months ago, but on a weekday afternoon it already shows a strong following of café-goers.

Students and people in the city alike enjoy the comfort of big suede couches and the convenience of grab-on-the-go foods. Sip on coffees, espresso, smoothies or Italian sodas; snack on bagels, muffins, sandwiches or a hot dog.

Sit down to enjoy the ambiance, and you you’ll notice mementos and pieces of art representing every sect of religion and walk of spirituality: Buddha, menorahs, African masks and Hindu statues.

The ornamentation is there to celebrate diversity, but more importantly it creates a place of "one-ness" where diversity can come together within the community. In fact, on Saturday nights the café is open until midnight for poetry readings and discussions for community activism.

So, when you find yourself downtown, don’t be disillusioned with the city, be a part of the greater community at One Heart Café.

744 Market Street

Mon. - Fri., 6:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

With the name "Internet Café" tacked on the end, I suspected the Java Bean would be a hot spot for "techies" and trendy professionals who become entranced by the screen of their laptops and only drink black coffee or espresso.

I was pleasantly surprised when my preconceptions were quickly replaced by cozy and personal vibes. Overstuffed leather couches and spacious seating options, indoor and out, contrast with the variety-packed café stand of food and beverages.

Browsing the menu, you’ll recognize a pretty standard list of coffees, but a closer look may entice you to try something new like a Jet Tea or a Brevé. Also try adding flavored syrups to any beverages -- there are dozens of options to choose from including Cookie Dough!

If you are in the mood for snacking, a full spectrum of pre-packaged candies and pastries or fresh salads and sandwiches await. Try one of their specialty sandwiches, such as "the Rialto" or "the Narrows," or create your own. You can actually fill-out an order on a sandwich card with your choice of bread, meat, cheese, dressing and other serving options.

So whether you’re looking for a new spin on coffee, a custom-made sandwich or just free Wi-Fi, the Java Bean Internet Café is sure to serve a personalized experience.

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