PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

Now here’s a place that all coffee shops should take a few notes from. Folks who are otherwise turned off by that overall corporate, sterile, yuppie Starbucks mentality can come to Mercury Café and claim it as their second home.

Upon entering, the first thing people will realize just how HUGE this place is! It’s well spread out, with comfy couches and overstuffed chairs scattered throughout. There are actual vintage desks and chairs for those looking for a place to work and utilize the free WiFi, including plenty of sockets to plug into, which drops the worry about the batteries don’t dying out. The walls are decorated with rotating art guests can purchase by local up and comers, which adds to the overall coziness and charm, instead of the standard, uninspired wall hangings most cafes hang to merely fill up space. A decently stocked library is also available, as are classic board games and vintage clothing.

The coffee and teas brewed here are fair trade and organic and at very fair prices. Friendly staff actually bring out their orders to their customers, instead of making them wait by the register or keeping their ears perked for their names. What a novel idea! And, unlike many small independent cafes, these folks accept major credit cards, with only a $3 minimum, which saves the hassle of stopping at the ATM ahead of time.

Ample, made to order sandwiches are also available, again fairly priced and prepared with organic ingredients, featuring bread from a local independent baker, including vegan choices. Desserts also come from a local bakery, many of which are completely vegan and absolutely delicious! Dropping a $10 here truly goes a long way, and allows guests to linger as long as they wish, without ever feeling the pressure of the shop “needing the space”.

Since this establishment is so truly inviting, many social gatherings are held here, from chess players to those who have a penchant for all things Goth. Even so, the decibel level never seems to rise beyond a whisper for those seated away from the groups, combined with music filtered through the air that is just as eclectic and genuine as the regulars.