The owners of Metropolis think that a coffeehouse should be a neighborhood center, “equally a place to relax as a place to plan a revolution.” Though you may not be masterminding the next Boston Tea Party or storming of the Bastille (both planned at coffeehouses), you can get some serious work and play accomplished at this suave yet comfortable spot located just east of the Granville Red Line in Edgewater.

Take your pick of organic, fair-trade (and bird-friendly) micro-roasted beans to go or bring your laptop, take advantage of free wi-fi, and grab a steaming mug of loose-leaf tea (more than 30 varieties) and a scone.

Check Metropolis's website for its schedule of music events. You can also check out a lengthy page profiling regulars, a true testament to Metropolis's independent and community spirit.

Rated one of America's 14 top coffee bars by Food and Wine magazine in 2006, Metropolis takes great pains to make sure its coffee (and your experience drinking it) is of the highest quality.

Centerstage Reviewer: Kate Schwartz