The appeal of this 12-year-old, earth-toned coffeehouse begins where it should: with great coffee. Founders Juanny Romero and Joshua Walter roast beans from fair trade producers, and they serve their Mothership java with tasty vegan and vegetarian pastries and sandwiches. Sunrise draws a hip, bookish crowd, as did our runner-up, defunct Maryland Parkway hangout Café Espresso Roma. 3130 E. Sunset Road, 702-433-3304.

Runner-up: Café Espresso Roma