Stroll along Harlem Avenue in the Northwest Side neighborhood that used to be known as Little Italy, and you'll find a number of old cafes and bread shops. Eventually you'll come across the Polly Pocket-sized Bar Cafe San Francesco, which perks up an aging Italian-American community with authentic espressos in a lived-in setting.
A big-screen television centers the room, blocking a windowsill of potted flowers begging for water. Black-and-white checkered tiling reignites high-school cafeteria memories. A Buddha figurine and a couple bamboo shoots planted on the bar seem out of place. Taped onto one of the mirrored walls, a 2006 World Cup Championship poster tells a story; you can almost see excited guests jumping from their seats during the game, coffee spilling onto the imitation-marble tables, perhaps the short and stout Italian pastry-maker clapping her hands.
The staff appears unconcerned with welcoming newcomers, content to hang with the regular guests in a back corner. The barmaid is polite enough to tell you when you have some chocolate on your nose, though, and you don't need to be greeted to pull up beside the bar and read a book over a fresh cup of cappuccino ($2.50). You'll have a hard time resisting a plate of chocolate marshmallow Kisses laid out on the bar. The Ace of Base tunes playing overhead will interrupt your reading far less than the theatrical telephone conversation the barmaid sometimes shares with unknown callers in Italian.
Unless you're a regular, you'll likely never return, especially when Cafe Cappuccino, a few doors down, delivers a more lounge-like/youthful experience. However, Bar Cafe San Francesco's mild atmosphere provides a perfect homework hotspot. Cram away and stay awake with an espresso ($2) alongside a small dessert ($2-$5.50). However, if alcohol works better, go for a beer ($2.50-$3) or cocktail ($4.50 and up). Purchase an alcoholic beverage on Fridays and receive a complimentary slice of pizza.
Average cost: <$10
Centerstage Reviewer: David-Anthony Gonzalez
