The coffee in this bookstore café ($1.75; includes one refill) is prepared from an Italian brand called Miscela D'oro; it's medium-bodied and slightly acidic, and I love how the pump pot froths the surface. The café itself has a pleasant atmosphere: not too frenetic, but not overrun with all-day campers, either.
McNally Robinson Teahouse
52 Prince St. (Lafayette-Mulberry Sts.)
212-274-1160
You'll find ample opportunity to experiment with fancy flavors at Ciao Bella, though even a small cup ($4.75) will cost you. I've enjoyed their malted milk ball gelato, especially the little crunchy bits; the cantaloupe tarragon sorbet — sandy orange with flecks of dark green — has a gentle, refreshing melon flavor.
Nice, tart currant gelato (one scoop; $3; from the now-closed Chambers St. location).
Ceci-Cela Patisserie
55 Spring St. (near Mulberry St.)
212-274-9179
