As alternative rock from a local radio station fills the room, students and residents in the neighborhood trickle in to Cafe Au Lait to satisfy their coffee cravings.

Besides a mix of caffeinated drinks (try the chocolatey iced mocha, which lacks the unpleasant acidity accompanying the beverage at some shops), the cafe offers turkey, tuna and three-cheese sandwiches, which can be made panini-style. Note, however, that the tuna sandwich just has plain tuna and not tuna salad with mayo; don't be afraid to ask for a dollop of Miracle Whip.

Sweets are more predictable. A glass case reveals tea breads, including marble pound cake, and satisfyingly tasty brownies. Also, M&M, chocolate and oatmeal raisin cookies fill a rack by the counter. Cafe Au Lait keeps the decor simple with brown- and cream-colored walls, several tables and chairs for eating, plus a couple of couches and glass-topped coffee tables for folks who feel like lingering.

Centerstage Reviewer: Mary Susan Littlepage