This vegan-friendly wi-fi coffeeshop is an atomic force to be reckoned with. Foil stars dangle from the front windows and large-scale murals of space-age figures welcome customers in search for the goodness that only a neighborhood cafe can provide. Whether making a quick coffee selection or ordering from a full menu that includes vegan chili and vegan burgers, cold sandwiches and warm focaccia (made to order with or without meat for $5 to $6.50), the staff is as friendly as the atomic puppy painting poised at the entrance. Breakfast options start at the ever-affordable price of one dollar, including bagels, cereal and granola, washed down with lattes, mochas and teas. The enormous vegan muffins run you a less enormous $1.50 and range from carrot ginger to pumpkin chocolate.

The spacious and bright interior includes booths in the back and plenty of comfortable table seating in the sun-filled front. As an Atomix customer you'll feel taken care of, even adored, as evidenced by the Customer of the Month plaque. The plaque is written with Scrabble letters, a reminder that while you may have come to get work done, Atomix is equally as perfect for starting up a heated yet friendly word-crunching match.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Heather Blaha