Philadelphia

It's just easy here. On a nice day you can grab a shaded outdoor seat and catch up on reading or chat with a friend you haven't seen since Hyper-color t-shirts. There is no waiting in a long line to order, worrying that you are sporting your Sunday frumpies and someone is going to notice, being bombarded with an obnoxious side conversation or some sad do-gooder pestering you to register to vote. This place just doesn't give a rat's ass and that is what makes it such a perfect escape. Your pet will probably think so too, since there is even a designated canine area. Aside from a myriad of coffee blends, which can be sipped without grimacing, you can munch on muffins, bagels, etc. NPR is a refreshing change from the typical dismal, slit-your-wrists music that drones in the background of most coffee shops. If you are lucky, you'll experience the owner's sense of Southern hospitality, as occasionally you'll be offered a free refill for the road.

Photo:  Jamie Papoutsis